\ LIBRARY OF CONGRESS. 



Chap. 
Shelf 



- : 



- M 



$ UNITED STATES OF AMERSCA. % 



I. O. O. F. 
DIGEST OF THE LAWS 

OF THE 

INDEPENDENT ORDER 

^ODD-FELLOWS: 

TO WHICH IS ADDED AN 

APPENDIX, 

CONTAINING THE 

CONSTITUTION, LAWS AND RULES OF ORDER, 
ALL NECESSARY FORMS AND THE FUNERAL CEREMONY: 

PREPARED BY THE FOLLOWING COMMITTEE, APPOINTED BY GRAND 
SIRE SHERLOCK, AT THE COMMUNICATION OF 1846 : 

JAMES L. RIDGELY, HOWELL HOPKINS, ROBERT H. 
GRIFFIN, WILLIAM E. PARMENTER. 

Published by order of the Grand Lodge of the United States. 

PHILADELPHIA: 
PRINTED BY JOHN H, GIHON> 

CORNER OF SIXTH AND CHESNT7T STS. 



18-18. 
to 



***■ 

r 



Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1847, 

BY THE GRAND LODGE OF THE UNITED STATES, 

Independent Order of Odd-Fellows, in the Clerk's office of the District 
Court of the United States for Maryland. 



CONTENTS. 



PAGE. 

Grand Lodge of United States, its composition, pow- 
ers and jurisdiction, 9 

Laws of General application, - 24 

Grand and Subordinate Lodges — Origin, Organiza- 
tion, Relation to the G. L. of U. S., - 43 

Grand and Subordinate Encampment — Origin, Organi- 
zation, Powers, -';..- - 54 

Constitution, Laws, and Rules of Order of the Grand 

Lodge of United States, - 59 

Forms of the Order, including Funeral Procession 

and Ceremony, - - - 81 



To the R. W. Grand Lodge of the United States : 

The Special Committee appointed at the last communication to 
prepare a Digest of the Laws of the Order, respectfully submit the 
following report : 

The committee have devoted to the subject their undivided atten- 
tion during a long session, and have endeavored by diligent labor to 
comply with the terms of the resolution under which they were ap- 
pointed. They have examined thoroughly, and with great care, all 
the printed proceedings of the Grand Lodge, and have extracted 
every thing in the form of Well settled law, which they could dis- 
cover. They have frequently been embarrassed by conflicting deci- 
sions, but in all such cases they have either guided themselves by 
the weight of authority, or, where the preponderance was doubtful, 
have sought light from general and unquestioned principles. They 
have occasionally found it necessary to fill up spaces which the re- 
corded legislation had left vacant, but they have introduced nothing 
to supply such defects which has not been sanctioned by well ascer- 
tained usage. In rare instances also they have felt constrained to 
incorporate into their work decisions which have been departed from 
by later legislation, but they have always yielded to the necessity 
with great reluctance, and only when they were convinced that such 
a course was indispensable to the preservation of the unity and har- 
mony of the system. Amid such masses of laws as have passed 
under their review, it was impossible that there should be entire 
consistency, but the committee have been extremely gratified to find 
that the instances of deviation from the true line have presented 
themselves at very wide intervals. 

The plan which the committee have adopted, they hope will ap- 
prove itself to the judgment of the Grand Lodge. After due delibe- 
ration, it was selected as the one best calculated for convenience of 
reference, and as affording the fairest opportunity of compressing the 
work into limits sufficiently narrow. It has been an object of which 
the committee have never lost sight, to avoid all unnecessary repeti- 
tion, in order that the fraternity might be furnished with a hand book, 
containing all that was essential, but at the same time not repulsive 
by reason of prolixity. To accomplish this, they have labored care- 

3 



fully, but they have never sacrificed to this idea of convenience any 
thing which they deemed of importance. 

The Digest is accompanied by an Appendix containing all the 
forms which have been sanctioned, or are necessary under the laws, 
and also a revised copy of the Constitution, Laws, and Rules of Or- 
der, into which are incorporated the amendments from time to time 
adopted. In the preparation of this latter portion of the appendix, 
some verbal alterations have been found absolutely necessary, but 
in no instance has the sense been interfered with. 

The committee now ask leave to surrender their work into the 
hands of this Grand Lodge. It has been their constant care during 
many days and nights of labor, and they part from it with deep 
anxiety, that it should be acceptible to the body under whose direc- 
tions it has been executed. 

JAMES L. RIDGELY, 
HOWELL HOPKINS, 
ROBERT H. GRIFFIN, 
WM. E. PARMENTER. 



DIGEST OF THE LAWS OF THE ORDER, 

DIVISION FIRST. 
GRAND LODGE OF THE UNITED STATES. 



ARTICLE I. 

ITS COMPOSITION, POWERS AND JURISDICTION. 

§1. The R. W. Grand Lodge of the United States, of 
the Independent Order of Odd-Fellows, is composed of 
Officers, Representatives and Past Grand Sires. — (Cons, 
Arts. II 8f VII.) 

§2. It is the fountain of all true and legitimate authority 
in Odd-Fellowship. — (Cons. Art. /, Jour, vol. \,p. 537, 
543-4, et vide vol. 2, p. 86.J 

§3. It has exclusive power to make, alter and regulate 
the work, language and regalia of the Order ; to pass gene- 
ral laws for the government of the fraternity in all its 
branches ; and to declare the usages and customs of the 
Order.— (Cons. Art. I.) 

§4. It has exclusive power to create Grand and Subor- 
dinate Lodges, and Grand and Subordinate Encampments, 
in any part of the world, delegating to such bodies so much 
of its authority as it may deem proper.— -(Cons. Art. I, 
vol. Up. 537/544J 

§5. It has full power to recall or annul any charter, war- 
rant or dispensation issued by its authority ; and no Lodge 
or Encampment, Grand or Subordinate, can lawfully exist 
without its continued sanction and approval. — (Journal, 
passim.) 

§6. It has power to superintend the work of the Order, 
in all its branches ; to enforce the usages and general laws 

9 



10 DIGEST OF LAWS. 

of the Order ; and to punish for non-conformity thereto. — 
(Cons. Jlrt. I, Journal, passim.) 

§7. By an act of incorporation passed at the December 
session, 1841, of the General Assembly of Maryland, it has 
corporate powers, with the provision, however, " that the 
said corporation or body politic shall not at any time hold 
or possess property, real, personal, or mixed, exceeding in 
annual value the sum of twenty thousand dollars." — (Vol. 
I, p. xi.J 

§8. It is the supreme and ultimate tribunal to which con- 
troversies and disputes in the Order may be referred. — 
(Cons. Art. I.) 

§9. It will entertain jurisdiction of an appeal by an indi- 
vidual member from the judgment of his Subordinate Lodge 
or Encampment, working immediately under its jurisdiction, 
and of charges preferred against such a Lodge or Encamp- 
ment by a member. — (Vol. 1, p. 80, 91-2; opinion of 
Grand Sire, approved by Grand Lodge, letters of 1845, 
No. 8&.J 

§10. It will entertain jurisdiction of an appeal by an in- 
dividual member of a Grand Lodge or Grand Encampment 
from a judgment of expulsion, the result of proceedings 
originally commenced against him on the floor of said 
Grand Lodge. — ( Deduction from general principles.) 

§11. It will entertain jurisdiction of an appeal by a mi- 
nority of a Grand Lodge or Grand Encampment from the 
decision of a majority thereof on any question of general 
importance.-— (Vol. 1, p. 179, 275, 480, 547, vol. 2. p. 
326-7.J 

§12. It will entertain jurisdiction of an appeal by an 
expelled Lodge or Encampment from the judgment of ex- 
pulsion pronounced by its immediate superior ; provided, 
the subordinate has submittted and surrendered its effects. 
— (Cons. Art. I, as amended, vol. 2, p. 145.J 

§13. It will not entertain jurisdiction of any other case 
unless presented by a Grand Lodge or Grand Encampment, 
or with the consent and express sanction of the one or the 
other .—Con*. Art. J, vol 1,^.36, 130,238-9, 282, 347.J 



GRAND LODGE OF THE UNITED STATES. 11 

ARTICLE II.— Grand Officers. 

||. The elective officers are the M. W. Grand Sire, I?. 
W. Deputy Grand Sire, R. W. Grand Recording Secretary, 
R. W. Grand Corresponding Secretary, and R. W. Grand 
Treasurer. — (Cons. Art. III.) 

§2. The appointed officers are the R. W. Grand Mar- 
shal, R. W. Grand Guardian, R. W. Grand Chaplain, and 
R. W. Grand Messenger. — Cons. Art. Ill, and usage.) 

§3. The Grand Sire, Deputy Grand Sire, Grand Record- 
ing Secretary, and Grand Treasurer, are elected biennially 
at the stated meeting in September. The Grand Corres- 
ponding Secretary is elected and holds his office at the 
pleasure of the Grand Lodge. — (Cons. Art. III.) 

§4. The elections take place by ballot on the second day 
of the session. The officers are nominated and elected 
separately, beginning with the Grand Sire and going regu- 
larly down. Pending an election, no new nomination can 
be received. Pending a ballot, no motion can be enter- 
tained, or debate or explanation permitted. No person, not 
regularly nominated, can be elected. Every ballot, whether 
blank or otherwise, is counted, and a majority of all the 
votes polled is necessary to a choice. — (Rules of Order 12, 
21, vol. 1, 309, vol. 2, 267, Cons. Arts. XIV \ XV.) 

§5. Each Grand Lodge and each Grand Encampment, 
working under an unreclaimed warrant granted by the 
Grand Lodge of the United States, may by its representa- 
tive (or representatives) nominate a candidate for the office 
of Grand Sire, and also a candidate for the office of Deputy 
Grand Sire.— (Cons. Art. XIV.) 

§6. The candidates for Grand Sire and Deputy Grand 
Sire must be Past Grand Masters, of the R. P. Degree, 
and contributing members of Subordinate Lodges. — (Cons. 
Art. XIV.) 

§7. Candidates for all other offices, elective or appointed, 
must be Past Grands of the R. P. Degree, and contributing 
members of Subordinate Lodges. — (Usage.) 

§8. The appointed officers are nominated by the Grand 
Sire, subject to the approval of the Grand Lodge, ancLcon- 



12 DIGEST OF LAWS. 

tinue in office during the term of the Grand Sire appointing 
them, unless removed by him for cause.— (Cons. Art. III.) 

§9. The officers are installed and enter on their duties at 
the stated meeting next ensuing the election. The installa- 
tion takes place on the second day of the session. — (Cons. 
Art. Ill, 12 Rule of Order.) 

§10. Should any of the officers elect fail to appear at the 
appointed time of installation, the particular office shall be 
declared vacant, the Grand Lodge shall proceed to a new 
election to fill the vacancy, and the officer so elected shall 
be accordingly installed. — (Cons. Art. III.) 

§11. In case of the death, resignation, disqualification, or 
refusal to serve, of the Grand Sire, the duties of the office 
shall be performed by the Deputy Grand Sire until the next 
stated meeting of the Grand Lodge, when an election shall 
be had for Grand Sire. In case of the death, resignation, 
disqualification, or refusal to serve of any other officer, elec- 
tive or appointed, the Grand Sire shall appoint some qual- 
ified brother to perform the duties of the vacant office until 
the next stated meeting, when an election or formal appoint- 
ment, as the case may require, shall take place, — (Cons. 
Art. XIII.) 

§12. In the absence of the Grand Sire and Deputy Grand 
Sire, the Grand Lodge shall elect a G. Sire joro tempore. — 
(Cons. Art. V.) 

§13. All officers are required to attend each meeting of 
the Grand Lodge and perform such duties as are enjoined 
by the laws and regulations of the Order. All officers un- 
der the presiding officer are required to obey the directions 
of that officer.— (Cons. Art. III.) 

%\'i. No officer (who is not also a representative) is 
permitted to vote, except the Grand Sire in case of equal 
division. N r o such officer is permitted to address the 
(irand Lodge, except upon leave first asked and obtained. — 
(Cons. Art. X, vol. I, 3f>5j 

§15. All necessary travelling expenses of the officers are 
paid out of the funds of the Grand Lodge. — ( Vol. Y,p. 1 15.) 

§16. Any officer may be re-elected or re-appointed. — 
(Journal, passim.) 



GRAND LODGE OF THE UNITED STATES. 13 

ARTICLE III.— Grand Sire. 

§L The Grand Sire is required to preside at all meetings 
of the Grand Lodge, preserve order and enforce the laws 
thereof- — to exercise, during the recess of the Grand Lodge, 
a general superintendence over the interests of the Order — 
to make a report at every stated meeting of his acts and 
doings in his office — to open or cause to be opened all 
Subordinate Lodges and Encampments receiving a warrant 
from the Grand Lodge of the United States, and to visit the 
same at least once a year, either personally or by deputy — 
to open or cause to be opened each Grand Lodge and Grand 
Encampment chartered by the Grand Lodge of the United 
States — to select and forward, through the Representatives 
at each regular session of the Grand Lodge, the T. P. W., 
and in case any particular jurisdiction is not represented to 
communicate the same by such other safe means as he may 
select, taking care that it be transmitted to all parts entitled 
to it so as to go into use on the first day of January in each 
and every year — to nominate the appointed officers of the 
Grand Lodge — to appoint all committees of the Grand 
Lodge, unless otherwise specially ordered — to give the 
casting vote whenever the Grand Lodge is equally divided 
— to sign ail orders on the Treasurer authorized by a vote 
of the Grand Lodge — to decide all questions of Order in 
the Grand Lodge, subject to an appeal to the Grand Lodge 
— and to give advice and instruction, when called on, to the 
Grand and Subordinate Lodges and Encampments, working 
under the Grand Ledge of the United States, on all subjects 
connected with the Order, its laws, usages and customs. — 
(Cons. Arts. Ill fy IV; By-Laws, Arts. I, II, III, XIV, 
XVIII, XXVI; Rules of Order 26 and 33, and approved 
practice.) 

§2. He is empowered to call special meetings of the 
Grand Lodge — to remove any appointed officer for cause — 
to fill vacancies occurring among the Grand Officers during 
the recess of the Grand Lodge — to issue, during the recess, 
dispensations for opening new Grand and Subordinate 
Lodges and Encampments, proper application being made — ■ 
2 



14 DIGEST OF LAWS. 

to issue his dispensation for conferring- the three Encamp- 
ment degrees upon scarlet members petitioning the G. Lodge 
of the U. States for an Encampment, so as to qualify the 
petitioners to receive the warrant ; provided there be no 
Encampment in the same State, District, or Territory, in 
which the applicants can conveniently receive the degrees — 
to visit officially the Grand and Subordinate Lodges and 
Encampments, working under the Grand Lodge of the Uni- 
ted States, acquaint himself with their proceedings, and to 
give such instructions and advice as he may deem necessa- 
ry for the good of the Order.-— (Cons, Arts. XI fy XIII; 
By-Laws, Art. XIII; vol. I, p. 279, 281, 383, 458 ; vol. 
2, p. 77-8, and ancient usage.) 

§3. He is not allowed to vote, except when the Grand 
Lodge is equally divided. He cannot hold any elective 
office in any State, District, or Territorial Grand Lodge or 
Grand Encampment. — (Cons. Art. IV.) 

§4. All travelling and other expenses, incurred by him- 
self or his deputy, at the opening of a Grand or Subordinate 
Lodge or Encampment, are to be paid by such Lodge or 
Encampment. — (By-Laws, Art. VI.) 

§5. He is authorized to cause two hundred copies of his 
annual report to be printed before the meeting of the Grand 
Lodge.— {Vol. I, p. 466.) 

ARTICLE IV.—Deputy Grand Sire. 

§1. The Deputy Grand Sire is required to open and 
close all the meetings of the Grand Lodge — to examine the 
Representatives as to their qualifications, previous to their 
taking their seats, and make report to the Grand Sire — to 
support the Grand Sire by his advice and assistance, and 
in his absence to preside — and in case of the death, disqual- 
ification, or refusal to serve of the Grand Sire, to perform 
the duties of that officei until the next stated meeting. — 
(Cons. Arts. V fy XIII, By-Laws, Art. XIX.) 

§2. He is authorized, in conjunction with the Grand Sire 
and Grand Recording Secretary, during the recess of the 
Grand Lodge, to grant dispensations for opening Grand 
Lodges or Encampments, or Subordinate Lodges or En- 



GRAND LODGE OF THE UNITED STATES. 15 

campments, to be submitted to the Grand Lodge for appro- 
val and confirmation at the next annual meeting. — {By- 
Laws, Art. XIII.) 

ARTICLE V. — Grand Recording Secretary. 
§1. The Grand Recording Secretary is required to make 
a just and true record of all the proceedings of the Grand 
Lodge—to read all petitions, reports, and communications 
addressed to the Grand Lodge — to attest all orders on the 
Treasurer, authorized by a vote of the Grand Lodge — to 
keep the accounts of the Grand Lodge with the bodies 
under its jurisdiction — on application being made for a 
Grand Lodge, (or Grand Encampment,) to inform the com- 
mittee on petitions whether the dues of the Subordinates 
are all paid up — to receive the returns of the Grand and 
Subordinate Lodges and Encampments under the jurisdic- 
tion of the G. Lodge of the U. States — to receive all moneys 
for the Grand Lodge, make a record thereof, and forthwith 
pay the same over to the Grand Treasurer — to publish a 
full statement of the moneys received, specifying the amount, 
whence received, and for what paid — to report at each an- 
nual communication of the Grand Lodge, in tabular form, 
an abstract of the returns of the several Grand and Subor- 
dinate Lodges and Encampments — at the same time to 
present a statement of all Grand and Subordinate Lodges 
and Encampments which may have failed to report — to 
furnish the Grand Lodge, in his annual report, with a full 
and detailed statement of his receipts and accounts, show- 
ing the amounts due to and by it — said report to be made 
up to within two weeks of the annual session — to summon 
the members to attend at stated and special meetings — to 
furnish each Grand Representative, when he takes his seat, 
with a copy of the Constitution, Laws arid Rules of Order 
of the G. Lodge of the United States — to distribute, as soon 
as possible, after the close of each communication, copies 
of the proceedings among the members of the Grand Lodge 
of the United States and the Grand and Subordinate Lodges 
and Encampments, after the following rule, to wit, to each 
member, one copy ; to each Subordinate Lodge and En- 



16 DIGEST OF LAWS. 

campment, immediately under the jurisdiction of the Grand 
Lodge of the United States, one copy ; and to each Grand 
Lodge and Grand Encampment, twice as many copies as it 
has Subordinates under its jurisdiction — and to perform 
such other duties as the Grand Lodge may from time to 
time require. — [Cons. Art. VI, §1 ; By-Laws, Arts. 3, 11, 
19, 21, 22 8? 26; vol. 1, p. 192, 300, 302, 377, 560, and 
usage.) 

§2. He has power, in conjunction with the Grand Sire 
and Deputy Grand Sire, in the recess of the Grand Lodge, 
to grant dispensations for opening Grand Lodges or En- 
campments, or Subordinate Lodges or Encampments, to be 
submitted to the Grand Lodge for approval and confirma- 
tion at the next annual meeting. — [By-Laws, Art. XIII.) 

§3. He is authorized to cause two hundred copies of his 
annual report to be printed before the meeting of the Grand 
Lodge. — [Deduction from Resolution on p. 466, vol. 1.) 

§4. He is required to give bond in the sum of two thou- 
sand dollars, for the faithful discharge of his duties, to be 
approved by the Grand Sire. — [Vol. 1, p. 465.) 

§5. He receives for his services such compensation as the 
Grand Lodge from time to time determines. — [Cons. Art. 
VI, $1.) 

ARTICLE VI. — Grand Corresponding Secretary. 

§1. The Grand Corresponding Secretary is required to 
write all letters and communications, and carry on under 
the direction of the Grand Lodge, or Grand Sire, the cor- 
respondence of the Grand Lodge — to make a detailed 
report, at each annual communication, of the subjects of 
correspondence, requiring the action of the Grand Lodge — 
to lay before the Grand Lodge all communications trans- 
mitted or received by him — to pay over forthwith, all 
moneys which he may receive, for the use of the Grand 
Lodge, to the Grand Recording Secretary, and to transact 
all such business appertaining to his office as the Grand 
Lodge may require. — [Cons. Art. VI, §2, vol. I, p. 288, 
302.) 

§2. He is authorized to cause 200 copies of his annual 



GRAND LODGE OF THE UNITED STATES. 17 

report to be printed before the meeting of the Grand Lodge. 
—{Vol. \,p. 466.) 

§3. He receives for his services such compensation as 
the Grand Lodge from time to time determines. — (Vol. 1, 
p. 364, 546, 560 ; vol. 2, p. 70, 193, 342.) 

ARTICLE VII.— Grand Treasurer. 

§1. The Grand Treasurer is required to receive from the 
Grand Recording Secretary all dues and monies of the 
Grand Lodge, and give a receipt for the same — pay ail 
orders drawn on him by the Grand Sire attested by the 
Grand Recording Secretary under the seal of the Grand 
Lodge ; to lay before the Grand Lodge at its annual session, 
a full and correct statement of his accounts and to furnish 
in advance a copy thereof to the Grand Recording Secre- 
tary to accompany the annual report of said last named 
officer.— (Cons. Art. VII, By-Laws, Art. XXII, vol. 2, 
p. 212-13.) 

§2. He shall execute a bond in the sum of $4,000 for 
the faithful performance of his trust. — (Vol. 2, p. 216.) 

§3. He receives for his services such compensation as 
the Grand Lodge from time to time determines. — (Vol. ], 
p. 381 ; vol. 2, jo. 214.) 

ARTICLE VIII.— Appointed Officers. 

§1, The Grand Marshal is required when the Grand 
Lodge of the United States appears in procession, and at 
Grand Visitations, to take charge thereof, and to make all 
necessary arrangements for the comfort and accommodation 
of the officers and members. — (Usage.) 

§2. The Grand Guardian is required to guard the door 
of the Grand Lodge room — to prove every brother before 
he admits him — to prevent the admission of persons not 
duly qualified — and to permit no one to retire without the 
p. W.-(Cons. Art. IX.) 

§3. The Grand Chaplain is required, at the opening and 
closing of the Grand Lodge, to address the Supreme Ruler 
of the Universe in prayer. — (By-Laws, Art. XXVIII.) 

§4. The Grand Messenger is required to prepare the 
2* 



18 DIGEST OF LAWS. 

Grand Lodge room for the meetings of the Grand Lodge — 
to attend the sessions of the Grand Lodge — to provide the 
.Representatives with such books, papers, or documents as 
they may require — to deliver, or cause to be delivered, 
messages from the Grand Officers and Representatives — to 
take charge of and keep in order the office of the Grand 
Corresponding Secretary, and to obey the orders of that 
officer. — (Vol. 1, p. 560, and usage.) 

§5. The Grand Messenger receives for his services such 
compensation as the Grand Lodge from time to time deter- 
mines.— ( Vol. I, p. 559; vol. 2, p. 70, 195,342.) 

ARTICLE IX. — District Deputy Grand Sires. 

§1. The Grand Sire is required to appoint, at each 
annual session of the Grand Lodge, in each State, District, 
or Territory, (where there are not a Grand Lodge and 
Grand Encampment) a District Deputy Grand Sire. — ( Vol. 
2, p. 189, 215, 305, 338.) 

§2. To qualify a brother for the appointment of D. D. 
Grand Sire, he must be a regular contributing member of a 
Subordinate Lodge and Encampment, and must have at- 
tained the rank of P. G. and the R. P. D.— (Vol. 2, /;. 189, 
216.) 

§3. District Deputy Grand Sires are required, as the 
special agents of the Grand Lodge, to do and perform what- 
ever the Grand Lodge or Grand Sire may order to be done 
in' their respective districts — to exercise a general supervi- 
sion over all Subordinate Lodges and Encampments (in 
their respective districts) which work under charters grant- 
ed by the G. L. U. S. — to act as the agents of the Grand 
Corresponding Secretary, and obey the special directions 
of that officer — and to make semi-annual reports of their acts 
and doings to the Grand Sire. — ( Vol. 2, p. 189, 215-16.) 

§4. They are permitted in no case to interfere with the 
Grand Lodges or Grand Encampments. — (Vol. 2, p. 189, 
216-18.) 

§5. Each D. D. G. Sire is required, previous to entering 
on the duties of his station, to give to the Grand Lodge of the 
United States a joint and several bond with two sureties, in 



GRAND LODGE OF THE UNITED STATES. 19 

the sum of $500, conditioned for the faithful discharge of 
his duties, to be approved by the Grand Sire. — {Vol. 2. p 
213.) 

§6. The appintments of D. D. G. Sires may be at any 
time revoked by the Grand Sire for cause. — {Vol, 2, p. 
189, 216.) 

ARTICLE X. — Grand Representatives. 

§1. Every Grand Lodge and Grand Encampment, work- 
ing under a legal, unreclaimed warrant, granted by the 
Grand Lodge of the United States, is entitled to one vote. 
Every Grand Lodge and Grand Encampment, having under 
its jurisdiction more than one thousand contributing mem- 
bers, is entitled to two votes. The number of votes to 
which each G. Lodge or Grand Encampment may be enti- 
tled is to be determined by the annual returns. — {Cons. 
Art. X.) 

§2. Representatives must be Past Grands, in good stand- 
ing, who have received the R. P. degree. They must 
reside in the State, District or Territory in which the Grand 
Lodge or Grand Encampment which they claim to repre- 
sent is located. They must be elected by the Grand Lodge 
or Grand Encampment which they represent, or appointed 
by authority thereof, and furnished with a certificate in the 
following form : 

F. L. and T. 
To the R. W. Grand Lodge of the United States of the I. 0. of 0. F. 

This certifies that P. G. , has been duly elected (or ap- 
pointed) Representative from the Grand Lodge, (or Grand Encamp- 
ment) of , to the Grand Lodge of the United States. 

Witness our hands and the Seal of the Grand , this 

dav of . 



, G. Master (or G. Patriarch.) 

, G. Secretary, (or G. Scribe.) 

^^ (Cons. Art. X, vol. 2, p. 467.) 

§3. Representatives must be elected or appointed for the 

term of two years from the commencement of the annual 

session of the Grand Lodge of the United States next sue- 



20 DIGEST OF LAWS. 

c-eeding their election or appointment. — [Cons. Art. X, as 
amended, vol. 2, p. 467.) 

§4. Xo Representative can represent two Grand bodies 
at the same time. — [Cons. Art. X.) 

§5. When a Grand Lodge or Grand Encampment is en- 
titled to two votes and has only one Representative in 
attendance, such Representative is entitled to the two votes. 
—{Vol. Up. 301, 525.) 

§6. No Grand Lodge or Grand Encampment, in arrears 
more than one year for dues to the Grand Lodge of the 
United States, is allowed to vote by its Representative. — 
{By-Laws, Art. XII.) 

§7. The Representatives are examined by the Deputy 
Grand Sire as to their qualifications, previous to being; 
admitted to their seats. On taking their seats they are fur- 
nished with a copy of the Constitution, Laws, and Rules 
of Order of the Grand Lodge of the United States. — {By- 
Laws, Art. XIX.) 

§8. The expenses of each Representative are to be paid 
by the body which he represents, and should he neglect or 
refuse to attend the meetings of the Grand Lodge of the 
United States, when duly notified, he shall be fined rive 
dollars, unless excused bv the Grand Lodge. — By-Laws, 
Art. XIX.) 

§9. The Representatives, at each session of the Grand 
Lodg-e of the United States, are to receive the T. P. W^ 
and they are to deliver the same, on their return, to the 
Grand Masters of the Grand Lodges, and the Grand Patri- 
archs of the Grand Encampments. — (By-Laws . Art. XIV.) 

§10. A Representative has authority, within the juris- 
diction which he represents, to introduce a brother with- 
out travelling card, or P. W. — (By-Laws, Art. XVII. /,. 

§11. The several Grand Lodges and Grand Encamp- 
ments are required to furnish their Representatives with all 
documents and papers, necessary in the discharge of the 
duties of their office. — (By-Laws, Art. XX. j 

ARTICLE XL— Past Grand Sires. 
§1. The Past Grand Sires are members of the Grand 
Lodge of the United States for life, and are entitled to vote 



GRAND LODGE OF THE UNITED STATES. 21 

in all cases. But if they be also Representatives, they can- 
not vote in both capacities.— (Cons. Art. VIII.) 

§2. They are not officers of the Grand Lodge. — (Vol. I, 
p. 157.) 

ARTICLE XII.— -Revenue. 

1. The fee for a Grand or Subordinate warrant, accom- 
panied by the necessary working books, is $30, payable, in 
advance.— (Con*. Art. XII, §1 fy 2, By-Laws, Art. VII, 
and Usage.) 

§2. Subordinate Lodges and Encampments, immediately 
under the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of the United 
States, are required to pay into its treasury, ten per cent, 
on their receipts. — (Cons. Art. XII, §3.) 

§3. Grand Lodges and Grand Encampments, are re- 
quired to pay $20 per annum for each vote which they are 
entitled to in the Grand Lodge of the United States. — 
(Cons. Art. XII, §4.) 

§4. The last source of revenue is the sale of printed 
copies of lectures, charges, odes, &c, of the Order, with- 
drawal and visiting cards and diplomas, the exclusive right 
to print any and all of which the Grand Lodge of the Uni- 
ted States reserves to itself, prohibiting all interference 
therewith by Grand or Subordinate Lodges or Encamp- 
ments, or by individuals. — (Vol. 1, p. 548, vol. 2, p. 75, 
140,150-1,211-352.) 

§5. The fiscal year of the Grand Lodge commences July 
1st, and ends June 30th.— (Vol. 2, p. 76, 88.) 

ARTICLE XIIL— Meetings. 

§1. The regular annual communication is held on the 
third Monday in September. — (Cons. Art. XI.) 

§2. The Grand Lodge may meet at any other time on 
its own adjournment. — (Cons, Art. XL) 

§3. Special meetings may be held on the call of the 
Grand Sire. If the purpose be the granting of a charter, 
two weeks notice to the Representatives will suffice. But 
in all other cases two months notice must be given to the 
different State, District and Territorial Grand Lodges and 



22 DIGEST OF LAWS. 

Grand Encampments. The purpose of the special meeting 
must always be communicated with the notice, and no bu- 
siness shall be transacted whereof notice has not been 
given, as above provided. — [Cons. Art. XI.) 

§4. The place of meeting may be determined by the 
Grand Lodge from time to time. The present location is 
the city of Baltimore, and unless otherwise specially 
ordered by the Grand Lodge, all meetings are to be held 
there. — [Cons. Art. XI, and Journal passim.) 

§5. The hour of meeting is nine A.. M. — (Cons. Art. 
XI.) 

§6. A majority of Representatives of the several Grand 
Lodges and G. Encampments is necessary to form a 
quorum. — (Cons. Art. XV.) 

§7. Should a quorum not appear at any time appointed 
for a meeting of the Grand Lodge of the United States, the 
Grand Sire has power to adjourn the meeting from time to 
time. — (Approved practice.) 

§8. The Grand Lodge of the United Sates, works and 
transacts its business only in the R. P. degree. — (13 Rule 
of Order and' Usage.) 

§9. Alterations or amendments of the Constitution, or 
Laws, must be carried by two-thirds of the votes given, but 
all other questions are to be decided by a majority of votes, 
—(Cons. Art. XV, XVI fy XVII.) 

§10. Any brother, a member of a Grand Lodge and in 
possession of the R. P. degree, if recommended by the 
Representative of the State from which he hails, may be 
admitted to witness the proceedings of the Grand Lodge 
of the United States, except when the Grand Lodge is in 
secret session. — (Vol. \,p. 95; vol. 2, p. 123.) 

§11. The Grand Lodge of the United States, may at any 
time resolve itself into Committee of the whole. — (Vol. 1, 
p. 76, 148-9, 151, 447, 449, vol. 2, 123-4, 5, 6.) 

ARTICLE XIV. 

AMENDMENTS OF THE CONSTITUTION AND LAWS. 

§1. Alterations or amendments of the Constitution of the 
Grand Lodge of the United States, must be offered in wri- 



GRAND LODGE OF THE UNITED STATES 23 

ting at a Stated meeting, and if seconded, they shall he en- 
tered on the minutes. At the next stated meeting the 
amendments may be considered, and if agreed to by two- 
thirds of the votes given, shall become a part of the Consti- 
tution. — {Cons. Art. XVII.) 

§2. Alterations or amendments of the Laws, must be 
proposed in writing, at a stated meeting, and may be con- 
sidered and acted on at the same communication, but not 
on the same day. Two-thirds of the votes given are ne- 
cessary to carry such amendments. — [Cons. Art. XVI, 
By-Laws, Art. 32.) 

§3. When a proposition to amend the Constitution comes 
up for action, a motion to amend such proposition cannot 
be entertained ; but a proposition to amend the Laws may 
be amended.— Vol. 2, p. 66, 259.) 

§4. A proposition to amend may be indefinitely post- 
poned; or laid on the table. — [Vol. 2, p. 37-8; vol. 1, p. 
446.) 

§5. A proposition to amend may be divided if the sense 
will admit thereof.— ( Vol. 2, p. 145.) 

§6. A motion to reject a proposition to amend cannot be 
entertained. — ( Vol. 1, p. 446.) 

§7. An amendment goes into immediate effect on being 
adopted. — (Vol. \,p. 301.) 

§8. But the vote adopting an amendment may be recon- 
sidered at any time during the same communication. — ( Vol. 
I, p. 376,38(0 



DIVISION SECOND. 
LAWS OF GENERAL APPLICATION. 



ARTICLE X.-Warrants. 

§1. Upon the petition of five brothers in good standing, 
a warrant to open a Subordinate Lodge in a State, District 
or Territory, where no Grand Lodge has been established, 
is granted by the Grand Lodge of the United States, or a 
dispensation is in like manner granted during recess by the 
Grand "Sire, or by him conjointly with the Deputy Grand 
Sire and Grand Recording Secretary, subject to the appro- 
val of the Grand Lodge at its next annual session. — {By- 
Laws Art. 1, 13. Vol. 1, 186, 279, 281. J 

§2. The petition must be according to the form in the 
appendix, and must be accompanied by the fee of thirty 
dollars, and also by the withdrawal cards of the petitioners, 
or a certificate from a D. D. G. Sire that the same are in 
his hands and are in due form. — [Cons. Art. 12. By-Laws, 
Art. 7, $r Usage.) 

§3. The Subordinate Lodge is opened by a Past Grand, 
deputized by the Grand Sire ; and it is his duty to deliver 
to the Lodge the warrant and charge books and to give all 
necessary instructions. — (By-Laws, Art. 1.) 

§4. The special deputy makes due return of his pro- 
ceedings to the Grand Sire. — (Usage.) 

§5. A warrant or dispensation is in the same manner 
granted to a Subordinate Encampment in a State, District 
or Territory, where no Grand Encampment exists, upon the 
petition of seven members of the Order in good standing, who 
must have attained to the R. P. Degree. If the brothers pro- 
posing to form the Encampment are Scarlet members only, 
the Grand Sire, upon their petition, instructs a deputy to 
confer upon them the Encampment degrees, in order to 
qualify them to petition for a warrant, requiring them to pay 
the fees for said degrees into the treasury of the new En- 
24 



LAWS OF GENERAL APPLICATION. 25 

campment.— -(By-Ldws % Art. 2 § 13, vol. l f p. 458, vol. 2, 
#181.) 

§6. The petition must be according to the form in the 
appendix. It must be accompanied by the fee of thirty 
dollars, and by the withdrawal cards of the petitioners, 
from the Encampment, of which they were last members, 
or a certificate from a D. D. G. Sire that the same are in his 
hands and are in due form.— (Cons. Art. 12. By-Laws, 
Art. 2 ^ Art. 1.) 

§7. The Subordinate Encampment is opened by the 
Grand Sire or by a qualified Patriarch by him deputized, 
who delivers the warrant and charge books, and imparts 
the necessary instructions. — (By-Laws,, Art. II.) 

§8. The Patriarch specially deputized makes return of 
his proceedings to the Grand Sire. — (Osage.) 

§9. A warrant or dispensation is in the same manner 
granted by the Grand Lodge of the United States, upon 
the petition of three or more Subordinate Lodges in a State, 
District or Territory where no Grand Lodge has been es- 
tablished, to open a Grand Lodge. — (By-Laws, Art. IV.) 

§10. The Lodges petitioning must contain seven Past 
Grands in good standing. — (By-Laws, Art. IV.) 

§11. The petition must be according to the form in the 
appendix, and is prepared and authenticated in the follow- 
ing manner. Each Lodge in the proposed jurisdiction ap- 
points one or more of its Past Grands to represent it in a 
convention, notified to meet at a convenient time and place, 
and to be composed of the Representatives of the several 
Lodges, and furnishes such Representatives with a statement 
under its seal of the number of its Past Grands in good 
standing. The questions of the propriety of application, 
and location of the Grand Lodge, are determined by a ma- 
jority, comprising at least three Lodges, the vote being by 
Lodges. The non-attendance of a Lodge by its represen- 
tative does not vitiate the proceedings if the Lodges present 
be sufficient in number to fulfil the foregoing requirements. 
The petition must be accompanied by the fee of thirty dollars. 
—(By-Laws, Art. V $ VII, vol.2, p. 34f5, 363.) 

§12. The Grand Lodge is opened by the Grand Sire, or 
3 



26 DIGEST OF THE LAWS. 

by a qualified brother by him specially deputized, who con- 
veys the warrant, imparts all necessary instructions, and 
makes return to the Grand Sire. — (By-Laws, Art. IV.) 

§ 13. A warrant or dispensation is in like manner granted to 
open a Grand Encampment in a State, District or Territory 
where no Grand Encampment has been established, upon 
the petition of three or more Subordinate Encampments 
which contain seven Past 'Chief Patriarchs in good stand- 
ing, the petition being accompanied by the fee of thirty 
dollars.— (By-Laws, Arts. IV $ VII.) 

§14. The petition must be according to the form in the 
appendix, and must be prepared and authenticated in the 
same manner as provided for the authentication of petitions 
for G. Lodges, save that the convention is composed of Pa- 
triarchs as representatives of the Subordinate Encampments, 
and each Encampment furnishes its Representative or Rep- 
sentatives with a statement, under seal, of its number of 
P. C. Patriachs in good standing. — (By-Laws, Art, V, 
vol. 2, p. 345, 363.) 

§15. The Grand Encampment is opened by the Grand 
Sire, or by some qualified brother by him specially depu- 
tized, who conveys the warrant, imparts the necessary in- 
structions, and makes due return to the Grand Sire. — By- 
Laws, Art. IV.) 

§16. The expenses of the officer attending to open a 
Lodge or Encampment, Grand or Subordinate, are paid by 
such Lodge or Encampment. — (By-Laws, Art. VI.) 

§17. If a petition for a warrant be in any case denied, the 
fee is repaid to the petitioners. — (By-Laws, Art. VII.) 

§18. The Grand Lodge of the United States will not 
grant a warrant or confirm a dispensation, to open a Grand 
Lodge or Grand Encampment, unless the Subordinates pe- 
titioning have paid up their dues, and information in this 
respect is communicated to the Committee on Petitions by 
the Grand Recording Secretary, before the petition is con- 
sidered.— (Vol. 1, p. 192, 5G0.) 

§19. The warrant of a Grand Lodge or Grand Encamp- 
ment having been granted, all Subordinate Lodges or En- 
campments, within its territorial limits, immediately pass 



LAWS OF GENERAL APPLICATION. 27 

under the jurisdiction of said Grand Lodge or Encampment. 
But when a Grand Lodge or Grand Encampment is opened 
by dispensation during recess, its Subordinates are required 
to pay their dues to the Grand Lodge of the United States, 
until the confirmation of the dispensation. — (By-Laws, Art. 
XVI, vol. I, p. 560.) 

§20. Upon the establishment of a Grand Lodge or Grand 
Encampment, the application for the renewal of the war- 
rant of a Subordinate Lodge or Encampment which had 
previously become extinct, must be made to the Grand 
Lodge of the United States with the sanction of the Grand 
Lodge or Grand Encampment of the State, District or 
Territory.-— (Vol 2, p. 195.) 

§2 1 . Every Lodge or Encampment, Grand or Subordinate, 
receiving a warrant from the Grand Lodge of the United 
States, continues t»- exist so long as it consists of five mem- 
bers in good standing, if a Lodge, and seven if an Encamp- 
ment ; except its warrant be reclaimed by special act, and 
such warrant cannot be restored, nor can the name and 
number of any Lodge or Encampment, be assigned to any 
persons, save to a sufficient number of those who were mem- 
bers of said Lodge or Encampment before the extinction of 
its warrant. And this law is imperative upon all Grand 
Lodges and Encampments, in regard to their Subordinates. 
— (Vol. \,p. 53, 75-6, 370.) 

§22. Upon the forfeiture or annulment of a warrant, a 
Lodge or Encampment, Grand or Subordinate, under the 
jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of the United States, is 
required to surrender to the G. Recording Secretary its 
warrant, books, documents, funds and property, to be re- 
turned upon its renewal, as before provided. — (Vol. 2, p. 
350, and approved practice.) 

ARTICLE II.— Regalia. 

Regalia for Subordinate Lodges. 
§1. The regalia of a member who has taken only the 
Initiatory degree is a plain white apron, without collar or 
any other badge of distinction. — (Vol. I, p. 541.) 



30 DIGEST OF LAWS, 

§2. The aprons and collars of members of Subordinate 
Lodges are White. 

Those for members of the First deg. are trimmed with White. 
" " " Second " " fink. 

" " " Third " « Blue. 

" " " Fourth " » Green. 

" " jRsjfVA " " Scarlet. 

The N . G. wears a Scarlet collar, trim'd with white or silver, 
« V. G. » ^/t«e 

" Secretaries Green «« " " " " 

" Treasurer Green " " " " " 

The Supporters of the N. G. wear Scarlet sashes. 

" '« " V. G. wear Blue sashes. 

The Warden and Conductor wear Black sashes. 
The Scene Supporters wear White sashes. 
The Chaplain wears a White sash. • 
The aprons of the elective and appointed officers are White, 
trimmed with the color of the collar or sash indicated for 
the office. — (By-Laws, Art. XXV.) 

§3. Past Grands wear Scarlet collars or sashes — and aprons, 
either White trimmed with Scarlet or Scarlet trimmed 
with White. The aprons and collars of Past Grands may 
be trimmed with silver lace or fringe. Those who have 
taken the R. P. degree may have trimmings of Yellow 
metal.— [By-Laws, Art. XXV.) 

§4. All members of a Subordinate Lodge may wear 
Rosettes, displaying the colors of the degrees they have 
taken.— (By-Laws, Art. XXV.) 

Jewels for Officers of Subordinate Lodges. 
§5. — The jewel for P. G. is five pointed Star. 
" " N. G.is Crossed Gavils 

" " V. G. is Hour Glass. 

" " Secretary is Crossed Pens. 

" " Treasurer is Crossed Keys. 

" " Warden is Crossed Wands. 

" " Conductor is Crossed Axes. 

< " Guardian is Crossed Swords. 

— ' Ancitnt Usage.) 



LAWS OF GENERAL APPLICATION. 29 

Jewels for Officers of Grand Lodge. 
§6.'— The jewel for P. G. M. is the Sun with Hand 

and Heart. 
The jewel for Grand Master is Sun, with the scales of 

justice impressed or engraved thereon. 
The jewel for D. G. M. is Half Moon. 

" Warden is Crossed Gavels. 

" Grand Secretary is Crossed Pens. 

" Grand Treasurer is CrossedKeys. 

" Grand Conductor is Roman Sword. 

" Grand Guardian is Crossed Swords. 

" Grand Marshal is Baton. 

—(Ancient Usage.) 
§7. All of said jewels shall be of White metal. 

Regalia for Grand Lodges. 
§8. The Officers and Past Grands of a Grand Lodge, 
wear the regalia of a Past Grand, as before defined. — (By- 
Laws, Art. XXV.) 

Regalia for Officers of Grand and Subordinate 
Encampments. 
§9. The Regalia for an officer of a Grand Encampment, 
is a royal purple Collar or Sash, and Black Apron 
trimmed with gold bullion fringe. 

§10. The Regalia for an officer of a Subordinate Encamp- 
ment is a Purple Collar, and Black Apron trimmed with 
gold colored fringe or lace, or both. 

Jewels for Officers of Grand and Subordinate 
Encampments. 
§11. For Giartd Patriarch, a double triangle of Yellow 
metal, with a representation of an Altar and Crossed Crooks 
in the centre. 

For Grand High Priest, same triangle with representa- 
tion of the Breast-plate. 

For Grand S. W., same triangle, with Crossed Crooks. 
" J. W., « Single Crook. 

" Scribe, " Crossed Pens. 

" Treasurer, " Crossed Keys. 

•• Sentinel, " Crossed Swords. 

§12. For officers of Subordinate Encampments Single 
3* 



30 DIGEST OF LAWS. 

Triangle, otherwise as designated for officers of Grand 
Encampments. 

§13. All Past Officers of Grand and Subordinate En- 
campments are entitled to wear the regalia and jewels ap- 
pertaining to the offices they have passed. — [Vol. 2, p. 339, 
362.) 

Regalia for members of Grand and Subordinate 
Encampments. 

§14. Members of Grand or Subordinate Encampments, 
shall wear Purple Collars, Black Aprons and Black Gloves. 
The Aprons and Collars trimmed with Yellow lace or fringe. 
—{By-Laws, Art. XXV.) 

Funeral Regalia. 

§15. The regalia to be worn by all brothers attending 
the funeral of a deceased brother is as follows : — A black 
crape rosette, having a centre of the color of the highest 
degree to which the wearer may have attained, to be worn 
on the left breast; above it a sprig of evergreen, and be- 
low it (if the wearer be an officer or past officer,) the jewel 
or jewels, which as such he may be entitled to wear.( — Vol. 
2, p. 357-8.) 

§16. The ordinary mourning badge to be worn by bro- 
thers, in memory of a deceased brother, is a strip of black 
crape passed through one button-hole of the left lapel of 
the coat, and tied with a narrow ribbon of the color of the 
highest degree to which the wearer has attained. — ( Vol. 2, 
p. 357-8.) 

Visiters. 

§17. Past Officers, and members in possession of En- 
campment degrees, and all other members of the Order, 
when visiting Grand or Subordinate Lodges, are entitled 
to wear the regalia and jewels pertaining to the highest de- 
gree which they have taken. — {By-Laws, Mrt. XXXI.) 
G. L. U. 8. 

§18. The Grand Representatives in the G. L. U. S. 
appear in the proper regalia of the bodies which they re- 
spectively represent. — {Vol. 1, p. 378, By-Law, 25 ; vol. 
2, p. 508-19.) 



LAWS OF GENERAL APPLICATION. 31 

ARTICLE III.— Public Occasions. 

§1. All processions and balls at which the regalia, em- 
blems, &c, of the Order are to be used, are prohibited, un- 
less permission therefor be granted, after due consideration, 
in open Grand Lodge^or by the Grand Master in the recess 
of the Grand Lodge.— (Vol. 1, p. 352-3.) 

§2. All publications made in any newspaper, calling on 
the Order to appear in regalia, on any occasion not autho- 
rized by the proper Grand Lodge are incorrect, and ob- 
noxious to censure ; and the unauthorized use of the name of 
the Order is strictly forbidden. — (Vol. 1, p. 352-3.) 

§3. The delivery of Lectures on Odd-Fellowship, either 
in Lodges, or in public, is not consistent with the duties of 
brethren of the Order, unless they are authorized to act in such 
a capacity by special enactment in Lodges of the State, District 
or Territory, within whose jurisdiction the lectures are de- 
livered ; and all enactments of Grand or Subordinate Lodges, 
having such an object in view, should expire by limitation 
within some reasonable space of time. — ( Vol. 2, p. 57.) 

§4. In all processions of the Order the rules of precedence 
set forth in the succeeding article, so far as they may ad- 
mit of being followed, are to be adhered to. — ( Vol. 2, p. 
358.) 

ARTICLE IV. — Funeral Ceremonies. 

§1. The order of procedure at the funeral of a deceased 
brother is as follows : 

At the appointed hour the Subordinate Lodge of which 
such a brother was a member, shall meet at its Lodge room. 
The N. G. shall appoint a Marshal and such number of 
Assistant Marshals as may be required. The Lodge shall 
thereupon move, and the brothers shall pass in procession 
from the Lodge room to the place from which the funeral 
may be appointed to start, in the following order : 

1. The Marshal, wearing a black scarf, and bearing a 
baton bound with a band of black crape. 

2. The O. G. bearing a red staff in like mourning. 

3. The Scene Supporters bearing white wands in like 
mourning. 



32 DIGEST OF LAWS. 

4. Members of the Initiatory Degree, two abreast. 

5. Members of the White, Pink, Royal Blue, Green and 
Scarlet Degrees, respectively, in like order. 

6. Members of the Lodge having the Patriarchal, G. R. 
and R. P. Degrees, respectively, in like order. 

7. The I. G., bearing the regalia and insignia indicative 
of the rank in the Order of the deceased brother. 

8. The Treasurer and Secretaries of the Lodge. 

9. The V. G., supported by his R. and L. Supporters, 
each bearing his wand of office, bound with a band of black 
crape. 

10. The Chaplain, wearing a white scarf, and supported 
by the Warden and Conductor, each bearing his staff of 
office in like mourning. 

11. The N. G., supported by his R. and L. Supporters, 
each bearing his wand of office in like mourning. 

12. The Past Grands of the Lodge, two abreast. 

13. Brethren of invited Lodges, those of each Lodge ar- 
ranged in the order above prescribed ; the Lodges, when 
more than one may be represented, arranged in order of 
juniority. 

§2. On arriving at the place appointed for the starting of 
the funeral, the brothers shall take position in the above 
order, immediately before the corpse, and shall precede it 
to the place of interment. 

§3. On arriving at the place of interment, the procession 
shall open to the right and left, and allow the corpse, 
mourners, &c, to pass through, the brothers on either side 
uncovered, the hat held in the left hand of each, and joining 
hands with each other. And after the passing of the corpse, 
mourners, &c, between the two lines, the brothers shall 
again form in reversed order and proceed to the grave. 

§4. After the performance of such religious service as the 
friends of the deceased may cause to be there performed, 
and before the final closing of the grave, the brothers shall 
form silently, and as nearly as may be according to the order 
above set forth, uncovered, the hat in the left hand of each, 
and joining hands with each other, in one or more circles, 
as regular as the nature of the ground may admit, around 



LAWS OF GENERAL APPLICATION. 33 

the grave ; when the Chaplain, or in default of a Chaplain, 
the N. G. may address the brothers and offer up a prayer, 
or may address the brothers without the offering of a prayer ; 
and after such address or prayer, or both, or if there be no 
address or prayer, then after a pause suited to the solemni- 
ty of the occasion, the N. G. shall advance singly to the 
head of the grave, and cast into it with the right hand the 
sprig of evergreen from his regalia, and shall return to his 
place ; whereupon the brothers from left to right in regular 
succession, and in such numbers at a time as not to cause 
confusion, shall advance to the grave shall cast into it (each 
with the right hand) the sprig of evergreen from their re- 
galia, and shall return to their place. And after all have 
done this, and the grave shall have been filled up or closed, 
the brothers shall silently form again in procession according 
to the order observed in coming to the place of interment, 
and shall return in such order to the Lodge room, where 
the N. G. shall declare the funeral ceremonies to be closed. 
§5. If at the time of his death the deceased brother was 
a member of an Encampment, or of a State, District, or 
Territorial Grand Lodge or Grand Encampment, or of the 
Grand Lodge of the United States, the Chaplain and high- 
est Officer or Officers present, of such Encampment, or 
Grand body or bodies, supported each by two members 
thereof, shall take position in the funeral procession next 
after the Chaplain and N. G. respectively, of the Subordi- 
nate Lodge of the deceased, and shall take precedence of 
such N. G. and of each other according to their respective 
rank in conducting the ceremony of interment as above set 
forth.— {Vol. 2, jo. 357-8.) 

ARTICLE V.— Diplomas. 

§1. The Grand Lodge of the United States has pre- 
scribed a form of certificate or diploma (in English, French 
and German,) to be issued to members of the Order in good 
standing. — ( Vol. I, p. 246, 287, and see form in appendix.) 

§2. If any Grand Lodge or Grand Encampment declines 
the agency for the sale of Diplomas, then the G. R. Secre- 
tary of the Grand Lodge of the United States is authorized 



34 DIGEST OF LAWS. 

to appoint the Grand Secretary or Grand Scribe of such 
Grand Lodge or Grand Encampment, and in the event of 
their declining, any other person, satisfactory security being 
given.— ( Vol. 2, p. 200, 523.) 

§3. The Grand Recording Secretary is authorized to 
furnish the diplomas to Subordinate Lodges and Encamp- 
ments, where Grand Lodges do not exist. — [Vol.], p. 287, 
317.) 

§4. The diplomas are signed by the Grand Recording 
Secretary of the Grand Lodge of the United States, and 
when issued to members of the Order by State Grand 
Lodges and Grand Encampments, or by Subordinate Lodges 
and Encampments, immediately under the jurisdiction of 
the Grand Lodge of the United States, are authenticated by 
the signatures of the presiding Officer and Recording Se- 
cretary or Scribe of the Body by which they are issued.— 
(Vol. I, p. 287; vol. 2, p. 196.) 

§5. Every member of the Grand Lodge is presented 
with a blank diploma, signed by the Grand Sire and Grand 
Recording Secretary, which is to be filled up after a form 
specially prescribed. — (Vol. 1, p. 287, 310, 311, and see 
form in application.) 

§6. The Grand Recording Secretary has discretionary 
power during the recess of the Grand Lodge to cause to be 
printed from time to time, such number of copies of the di- 
ploma as may be necessary. — (Vol. 2, p. 53.) 

ARTICLE VI.— The T. P. W. 

§1. The T. P. W. was adopted for the protection of the 
Order, and is one of the tests by which travelling brothers 
are tried. — (Vol. 1, p. 24; vol. 2, p. 60, 66.) 

§2. It is designed only for the use of brethren who are 
travelling beyond the limits of the jurisdiction to which they 
belong, and in order that each brother entitled to it may 
be properly instructed therein, and that visiting brethren 
from other jurisdictions may be properly examined, the N. 
G. and V. G. of a Lodge, and the C. P. and S. W. of an 
Encampment are to be privately put in possession thereof 
at the time of their installation, that they may be qualified 



LAWS OE GENERAL APPLICATION. 35 

either to give or receive it. The Grand Master and Grand 
Patriarch of a State and their regular deputies, should, of 
course, also, be in possession of it. — ( Vol. 2, p. 60, 66, 360, 
338.) 

§3. None other than members who are placed in some of 
the positions above mentioned are entitled to receive it. — 
(Vol. 2, p. 60,66.) 

§4. It is selected by the Grand Sire, is changed annually, 
and goes into use on the first day of January in each year. 
—(By-Laws, Art. XIV, vol I, p. 381.) 

§5. It is the duty of the Grand Sire to communicate it to 
the Grand Representatives at each annual session, and it is 
their duty to deliver it in their several States, to the Grand 
Master and Grand Patriarch. — (By-Laws, Art. XIV.) 

§6. If any State be without a Grand Representative, it is 
the duty of the Grand Sire to transmit the word, in due 
season, through some other safe channel, to the State autho- 
rities, (if there be any,) or to the N. G. of each Lodge and 
the C. P. of each Encampment working under the jurisdic- 
tion of the Grand Lodge of the United States. — (By-Laws, 
Art. XIV.) 

§7. By the terms of the independent Charter, granted to 
the Grand Lodge of British North America, the T. P. W. 
is the same in both jurisdictions and is to be selected (as 
above provided) by the United States authorities. It is the 
duty of the Grand Sire of the United States to communi- 
cate the word to the Grand Sire of British North America. 
(Vol. 2, p. 328-9.) 

§8. As a general rule the T. P. W. can only be given by 
a N. G. or C. P. to the members of their own bodies res- 
pectively ; but when brothers are called from home sudden- 
ly, without time to make personal application for their vis- 
iting cards, it is proper to accompany the card, when for- 
warded, by a letter from the N. G. of the Lodge granting it, 
to the N. G. of some Lodge in the place where the travel- 
ling brother is temporarily resident, which letter conveys a 
request that the P. W. should be communicated. — (Vol. 2, 
p. 454.) 

ARTICLE VII.— Cards. 

§1. The Grand Lodge of the United States has prescrib- 



36 DIGEST OF LAWS. 

ed the forms of visiting and withdrawal cards to be exclu- 
sively used throughout its jurisdiction. — [Vol. 2, p. 73-5, 
mid see appendix.) 

§2. Any brother in good standing may, by application, 
(personal or otherwise,) to his Lodge or Encampment, ob- 
tain a visiting card to be valid for any reasonable length of 
time expressed on its face. — [Vol. 2, p. 73-5.) 

§3. Any brother in good standing, may in the same mode 
obtain a withdrawal card.— ( Vol. 2, p. 74-5.) 

§4. Brethren holding visiting cards continue to be mem- 
bers of the Order and are amenable to all the laws of their 
Lodges or Encampments, in the same manner as other mem- 
bers.— ( Vol. 2, p. 74.; 

§5. Visiting cards entitle brothers holding them, to visit 
Lodges or Encampments, as the case may be, while travel- 
ling or sojourning in places beyond the limits of the juris- 
diction to which they belong. They also entitle the hold- 
ers to all the courtesies of the brotherhood, as well as the 
benevolent usage of the Order, if they should meet with ao- 
cident or misfortune. — ( Vol. 2, p. 73-5.) 

§6. The vote of a Subordinate Lodge or Encampment, 
granting a withdrawal card to a brother applying therefor, 
severs the connection of such brother with such Lodge or 
Encampment, and releases the Lodge or Encampment grant- 
ing it from all liabilities for benefits, whether the card is ac- 
tually taken or not. But if the card be taken, the brother 
receiving it is entitled to the T. P. W. in use at the time and 
retains the right to visit with that word for a year. — ( Vol. 
2, p. 73,312.; 

§7. Every visiting or withdrawal card must bear the coun- 
ter-signature of the Grand Corresponding Secretary of the 
Grand Lodge of the United States or a fac-simile thereof. 
It must be signed by the N. G. or C. P. and attested by the 
Secretary or Scribe, under the seal of the Lodge or Encamp- 
ment granting it. The name of the holder must also be 
written on the margin in his own hand-writing. — ( Fy-Laws, 
Art. XVII; vol. I, p. 302, vol. 2, p. 212, 307 and Usage.) 

§8. When the time has expired for which a visiting card 
was granted, it is the duty of the brother holding it to return 



LAWS OF GENERAL APPLICATION. 37 

it to the Lodge or Encampment which granted it. — (An- 
cient Usage.) 

§9. A member may by written resignation withdraw from 
the Order and is not bound to take a withdrawal card.— 
(Vol. 2, jo. 201.) 

§10. The Lodge or Encampment granting a visiting or 
withdrawal card has power to recall or annul the same for 
good cause. — (Ancient Usage.) 

§11. No Lodge or Encampment is bound to receive a 
card on deposite (that is to admit the holder to membership) 
but such cases are to be governed by the rules pre- 
scribed by the local authorities. — (Vol. 2, p. 75-6.) 

§12. The Grand Lodge of the United States has adopt- 
ed a form of card or certificate for the wives and widows of 
Odd-Fellows. — (Vol. 2, p.2i0, and see appendix.) 

§13. Each Subordinate Lodge may by a vote of two- 
thirds of its members present, grant a card to the wife or 
widow of any member on application therefor, to be signed 
by the officers of the Lodge and countersigned by the re- 
cipient on the margin. — ( Vol. 2, p. 210.) 

§14. Such card, if granted to the wife of a member, can- 
not remain in force more than one year, but if granted to a 
widow it continues valid during her widowhood. — ( Vol. 2, 
p. 210.; 

§15. The Grand Recording Secretary is required to fur- 
nish certificates, in the nature of withdrawal cards, to all 
members of Subordinate Lodges or Encampments, (immedi- 
ately under the jurisdiction of the G. L. U. S.) which may 
become extinct. — ( Vol. 2, p. 455.) 

§16. Such certificates are signed by the Grand Record- 
ing Secretary and attested by the seal of the G. L. U. S. 
They entitle the holder to all the privileges exercised un- 
der withdrawal cards, and are only to be issued after the 
presentation by the applicants of satisfactory evidence of 
membership and good standing. — (Vol. 2, p. 455.) 

ARTICLE VIII. — Travelling Brothers. 

§1. When a visiting brother presents himself at the door 
of a Lodge or Encampment, it, is his duty to send in his card 
4 



38 DIGEST OF LAWS. 

by the Guardian or Sentinel. If the card be authentic, the 
presiding officer appoints a committee of three to examine 
the visiter. In a Lodge, one member of this committee 
must be the N. G. himself, the V. G. or some other bro- 
ther known to be in possession of the T. P. W. and the 
other members must be of the Scarlet Degree. In an En- 
campment, one member must be the C. P. himself, the S. 
W. or some Patriarch known to be in possession of the T 
P. W., and the other members must of course be of the R. 
P. Degree.— (Vol. 2, p. 86.) 

§2. It is the duty of the proper member of the examin- 
ing committee in the first place to obtain the T. P. W. pri- 
vately from the visiter ; the word is to be lettered and the 
visiter must commence. The committee must then exam- 
ine the visiter in the degree in which the Lodge or En- 
campment is open, and in cases of doubt, they may ex- 
tend their examination to the other degrees. — ( Vol. 2, ;;. 86.) 

§3. If the examining committee be satisfied with the re- 
sult of the examination, they will introduce the visiter into 
the Lodge or Encampment without further ceremony.— f Vol. 
2, p. 308, 510.) 

§4. No brother can be admitted to visit or deposite his 
card in a Lodge or Encampment, out of the State, District, 
or Territory where he resides, unless he presents a regular 
card authenticated in the manner pointed out by section 7 
of the Article next preceding this, and prove himself in the 
mode pointed out in this Article ; provided, nevertheless, a 
brother may always visit, if introduced by a Grand Repre- 
sentative or other elective Grand Officer of the jurisdiction 
under which he wishes to visit. — (By-Laws, Jirt. XVII.) 

§5. When a brother applies for and obtains relief from a 
Lodge or Encampment of which he is not a member, the 
amount of relief granted must be endorsed upon his card, 
and notice thereof must he forwarded to the Lodge or En- 
campment granting the card, by the Secretary or Scribe of 
the Lodge or Encampment granting the relief.-— ( Vol. 2, p. 
299.) 

§6. A test 0. B. N. is no part of the mode of examin- 
ing' visiters, and any Lodge or Encampment introducing any 



LAWS OF GENERAL APPLICATION. 39 

such requirement, would deserve severe censure. — (Vol, 2, 
p. 470.; 

ARTICLE IX.— Returns. 

§1. Every Grand Lodge is required to make an annual 
return to the Grand Lodge of the United States, according 
to the forms in the appendix ; the same to be furnished by 
the G. L. U. S.— (By-Laws, Art. 1 1 \--Vol. 2, p. 88.) 

§2. The return is in two parts. The first part contains 
full information under the following heads : 

1. Names and numbers of Subordinate Lodges. 

2. Place and times of their meeting. 

3. Number of initiations. 

4. Number of rejections. 

5. Number admitted by card. 

6. " withdrawn by card. 

7. " re-instatements. 

8. *' suspensions. 

9. " expulsions. 

10. " deaths. 

11. " Past Grands. 

12. " contributing members. 

13. Whole amount of receipts. 

14. Names of the Grand Masters. 

15. Names of Past Grand Officers. 

16. Number of its members. 

17. Names of persons expelled and suspended for cause 
other than non-payment of dues, are required to be append- 
ed to this return. — (By-Laws, Art. 11 — Vol. I, p. 304, 
568.) 

§3. The second part contains full information under the 
following heads : 

1. Number of brothers relieved in Subordinate Lodges. 

2. " widowed families. 

3. " brothers buried. 

4. Amount paid for relief of brothers. 

5. " relief of widowed families. 

6. " education of orphans. 

7. " burying the dead. 



40 DIGEST OF LAWS. 

8. Total amount paid for these purposes, , 

9. Such supplementary information as may be useful to 
the Order, and explanatory of the foregoing. — (By-Laws, 
Art. \\—Vol. I, p. 572.) 

§4. The return, attested in both of its parts by the sig- 
natures of the Grand Master and the Grand Secretary, and 
the seal of the Grand Lodge, must be rendered to the G. 
Recording Secretary, at least one month previous to the 
annual session of the Grand Lodge of the United States. — 
(By-Laws, Art. 11. J 

§5. The return must correspond to the fiscal year of the 
Grand Lodge of the United States, commencing on the first 
day of July, and terminating on the thirtieth of June. — ( Vol. 
2, p. 76, 88.) 

§6. Every Grand Encampment is required to make re- 
turns similar to those required of Grand Lodges, and accord- 
ing to the form in appendix. They must contain the num- 
ber of Past Chief Patriarchs and Past High Priests, and the 
names of Past Grand Patriarchs, and must be attested by 
the Grand Patriarch and Grand Scribe, under the seal of 
the Grand Encampment. They must be rendered to the G. 
Recording Secretary, at least one month previous to the ses- 
sion of the Grand Lodge of the United States. — (By-Laws, 
Art. 11.) 

§7. Each Subordinate Lodge under the jurisdiction of the 
Grand Lodge of the United States, is required to make re- 
turns semi-annually, according to the forms in the appendix. 
The returns set forth : 

1 . Names of persons initiated. 

2. " brothers admitted by card. 

3. " persons rejected. 

4. " brothers withdrawn by card. 

5. " " suspended, and the cause in each 
case specified. 

6. Names of brothers expelled, and the cause in each case 
specified. 

7. Names of brothers re-instated. 

8. " " deceased during the term. 

9. Number of degrees conferred. 



LAWS OF GENERAL APPLICATION. 41 

10. Number of contributing members. 

11. Whole amount of receipts, specifying the amount from 
each source of revenue. 

12. Amount of dues to the G. L U. S., being ten per 
centum on the whole amount of receipts. 

13. Names of officers elected and installed. — [By-Laws, 
Art. 3 and 11.) 

§8. Each Subordinate Lodge under the jurisdiction of 
the Grand Lodge of the United States, must also make a 
relief return, according to the form in the appendix, and em- 
bracing the same details, so far as they are applicable, as are 
required in the returns from Grand Lodges. — (By-Laws, 
Art. 3 and 11.) 

§9. These returns must be attested by the N. G., V. G. 
and Secretary of the Subordinate Lodge under its seal ; and 
accompanied by its dues, must be rendered to the D. G. S. 
of the District in which it is situated, immediately after the 
close of each term. — (By-Laws, Art. 3; vol. I, p. 569.) 

§10. Each Subordinate Encampment under the juris- 
diction of the Grand Lodge of the United States, must in 
like manner make semi-annual returns to that body, accord- 
ing to form in the appendix — such returns to correspond in all 
respects with the returns from Subordinate Lodges, and to 
be attested by the G. P., H. P. and Scribe, under seal of 
the Encampment. They must be rendered, accompanied by 
the dues, to the Deputy Grand Sire of the District in which 
the Encampment is situated, immediately after the close of 
each term. — (By-Laws, Art. \l.) 

§11. Any Subordinate Lodge or Encampment under 
the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of the United States, 
which fails for one v year to make its returns, forfeits its char- 
ter.— (Vol. 2, p. 76,88.) 

ARTICLE X.— Local Laws. 
§1. The Constitution of all Grand and Subordinate 
Lodges and Encampments, (under the immediate jurisdic- 
tion of the Grand Lodge of the United States,) and all 
amendments thereto, are to be forwarded to the G. L. U. S. 
on their adoption, for examination. If approved, they be- 
4* 



42 DIGEST OF LAWS. 

come the organic law. If error be found the error must be 
corrected. In the interval between the adoption of the 
constitution, or amendment, and its confirmation by the G. 
L. U. S., it is binding on the body by which it has been 
adopted.— {By-Laws, Art. 10; Vol. 2,p. 454.) 

§2. The G. L. U. S. has abundant power to direct any 
Grand Lodge or Grand Encampment to remove any clause 
or article from its Constitution or By-Laws, which may 
conflict with the fundamental laws of the Order, even though 
said Constitution or By-Laws may have been approved. — 
(Journal, Vol. 2, p. 486.) 

§3. The G. L. U. S. has no power to alter the charter 
of a State Grand Lodge or Grand Encampment, without 
the consent of such Grand Lodge or Grand Encampment. 
^Journal, Vol. 2, p. 486.) 






DIVISION THIRD. 
GRAND AND SUBORDINATE LODGES. 

Article I. — Grand Lodges. 

Origin, Organization, Relations to the G. L. U. S. 

§1. Grand Lodges exist by virtue of warrants or dispen- 
sations, granted or confirmed by the Grand Lodge of the 
United States ; and they have jurisdiction over all the Sub- 
ordinate Lodges within their assigned limits. — (Cons., Art. 
[.--By-Laws, Art. IV, XVI. 

§2. Grand Lodges are not allowed to change their loca- 
tion, without the consent of the Grand Lodge of the United 
States. Nor can more than one Grand Lodge exist in one 
State, District or Territory at the same time. — (By-Laws, 
Art. VI I L— Vol, Up. 272-3, 379 vol. 2, p. 55. 

§3. The Grand Lodges work in the G. L. Degree. — 
(Usage.) 

§4. The- quorum of a Grand Lodge consists of five or 
more members. If there be less than five members, it be- 
comes disqualified to work— its warrant is at once forfeited, 
and its Subordinates pass under the jurisdiction of the 
Grand Lodge of the United States. — (Vol. 1, 75-76, Hop- 
kins D., 1 series, No. 58.) 

§5. Each Grand Lodge consists of all the Past Grands 
in good standing within its jurisdiction ; but by its Consti- 
tution it may restrict its legislative power to such represen- 
tative basis, as it may deem best for the proper transaction 
of business ; but it cannot abridge the privileges of Past 
Grands pertaining to their rank in the degrees of the Order; 
viz : their right to past official degrees, eligibility to office, 
precedence belonging to their grade, privilege of attending 
the meetings of their Grand Lodge, and right to vote for 
Grand officers. — (Hopkins D., 1 series, No. 49, No. 58. — 
Ibid, 2d series, No. 61, approved practice, Vol. 2, p. 480.) 

43 



44 DIGEST OF LAWS. 

§6. A Past Grand cannot be a member of more than one, 
Grand Lodge at the same time. A Past Grand from on© 
State does not of right become a member of a Grand Lodge 
in another State, upon becoming a resident within its juris- 
diction. — (By-Laws, Art. XV., Hopkins D., 1 series, No. 
58.) 

§7. Each State Grand Lodge must confer the G.,L. de- 
gree, without pecuniary consideration, upon any brother in 
good standing, who has regularly performed the duties of 
Noble Grand in a Subordinate Lodge, and upon no other 
person ; it being a reward for meritorious service ; and it 
must confer the Past official degrees upon all Past Grands 
entitled thereto.— (By-Laws, Art. XXIX.— Vol. 2, p. 191.) 

§8. Each Grand Lodge has a Grand Seal, an impression of 
which in wax must be deposited in the office of the Grand 
Recording Secretary of the G. L. U. S. It must adopt a 
Constitution, subject to the approval of the Grand Lodge 
of the United States ; and one month at least prior to the 
annual session, it must make to that body annual returns of 
the condition of the Order within its jurisdiction, according 
to the forms in the appendix, accompanied with its dues. 
It may not change its Constitution in such manner as to 
abridge the terms of its officers then incumbent, and it is 
responsible to the Grand Lodge of the United States for 
any irregularity in work, or otherwise, which it may allow 
within its jurisdiction. — (By-Laws, Articles 9, 10, 11, 23. 
— Vol 2, p. 34G. — Hopkins I)., 2 series, No. 1 17.) 

§9. Each Grand Lodge is entitled to one representative 
in the Grand Lodge of the United States ; and if the Subor- 
dinates within its jurisdiction contain one thousand mem- 
bers, the fact appearing in the annual return, it is entitled 
to two representatives. It must pay the expenses of its 
representatives, and furnish them with certificates in proper 
form, and with all documents and papers necessary for the 
performance of their duties. It must pay to the Grand 
Lodge of the United States twenty dollars for every vole t< 
which it is entitled therein ; and its representatives shall no 
be allowed to vote, if it be more than one year in arrears. 
It may nominate by its representatives a candidate for the 



GRAND AND SUBORDINATE LODGES. 45 

office of Grand Sire, and a candidate for the office of D. G. 
Sire. — [Constitution, Articles 10, 12. — By-Laws, Articles 
12, 20. Cons. Art. 14.) 

§10. Every Grand Lodge must enforce upon her Subor- 
dinates a strict adherence to the work of the Order, accord- 
ing to the forms determined upon by the Grand Lodge of 
the United States ; and it cannot use, nor suffer to be used 
within its jurisdiction, any charges, lectures, degrees, forms 
of installation, ceremonies, or regalia, other than those pre- 
scribed by the Grand Lodge of the United States. It must 
enact laws to prevent its Subordinates from initiating persons 
who reside under the jurisdiction of other Grand Lodges, as 
well as from initiating persons at places remote from their 
permanent residence, while Lodges are situated in their 
immediate neighborhood. — [By-Laws, Art. 23, 30.) 

§11. Grand Lodges are required to enact laws to restrict 
processions and public displays in regalia, within their res- 
pective jurisdictions ; and to regulate the delivery of lectures 
upon matters connected with the Order. — Vol. I, p. 352, 
Vol 2, p. 57, 200.) 

§12. Each Grand Lodge is entitled to receive as many 
printed copies of the annual proceedings of the Grand Lodge 
of the United States, as it has in number Subordinates work- 
ing under its jurisdiction, for its own use; and an equal 
number to be distributed among its Subordinates. — (By- 
Laws, Art. 21.) 

Article II. — Grand Lodges. 
Powers, Duties, Relations to Subordinates. 

§1. Each Grand Lodge is the grand legislative head of 
the Order in its jurisdiction. — (Vol. 1, p. 456, 538.) 

§2. A Grand Lodge has power to grant charters to Sub- 
ordinate Lodges, and to open such Lodges according to the 
prescribed form. It may enact laws for the government of 
its Subordinates. It may establish the form of returns from 
Subordinates, and fix upon the periods when they shall be 
made ; and it may impose such dues upon its Subordinates 
as shall be necessary to defray its expenses. — (General 
Principle and Usage.) 



46 DIGEST OF LAWS. 

§3. Each Grand Lodge has power upon appeal to hear 
and determine upon matters of grievance between members, 
and Lodges within its jurisdiction. No Lodge can appeal 
from its decision to the Grand Lodge of the United States 
but with its consent, save in case of an expelled Lodge, 
which surrenders its effects. It may grant a new trial to a 
member of a Subordinate Lodge, on the ground of infor- 
mality or unfairness, or discovery of new testimony. It 
has power of interference and adjustment, >in difficulties 
arising between one of its Subordinates and a Subordinate 
in another jurisdiction. — [Cons. Art. 1, vol. 2, p. 51, 213, 
—vol. I, p. 238) 

§4. Each Grand Lodge is possessed of full executive 
powers over its Subordinates. It enforces their obedience 
to the laws of the Grand Lodge of the United States, as well 
as to its own. It may suspend or annul the charter of a 
Lodge for sufficient cause, but cannot restore the same to 
any but its original holders. It cannot compel a Subordi- 
nate Lodge to meet in a particular room, but may prohibit 
it from meeting in a room obviously unsuitable. It may 
terminate the indefinite suspension of a member of a Sub- 
ordinate Lodge, for non-payment of dues, and upon reversal 
of the decision of a Subordinate, may reinstate a suspended 
or expelled member, without consent of his Lodge. — (Vol. 
2. p. 178, 205,208,349.) 

§5. The officers of a Grand Lodge are Most Worthy 
Grand Master, Right Worthy Deputy Grand Master, R. 
W. G. Warden, R. W. G. Secretary, R. W. G. Treasurer, 
who are elected; Worthy Grand Marshal, W. G. Conduc- 
tor, W. G. Guardian, who are appointed by the Grand 
Master. 

§6. The Most Worthy Grand Master has powers and 
duties prescribed in the charge books of the Order, and 
performs such duties as are imposed upon him by his Grand 
Lodge. He has supervisory power over the Order, and 
must check the introduction of subjects foreign to the pur- 
poses of the Order. He has not power, by virtue of his 
office to grant dispensations for opening Lodges, but it is 
competent for his Grand Lodge to confer such power upon 



GRAND AND SUBORDINATE LODGES. 47 

him. He is required to enforce the law suppressing the 
publication of the work, cards and diplomas, as directed by 
the G. L. U. S. If he or his Grand Lodge grant permis- 
sion to a Lodge to apply for relief, he furnishes written 
authority according to the form in the appendix. He may 
visit Subordinates, examine their books, and install their 
officers. He may introduce visiting brethren into any 
Lodge within his jurisdiction, without the usual examina- 
tion. — [Vol. 2. p, 302, 315, 352. — Hopkins D., 2 series, 
No. 41. — By-Laws, Art. 17.) 

§7. The other elective officers have .powers and duties 
as prescribed in the charge books ; and have the power trj 
introduce visiting brethren within the jurisdiction of then- 
Grand Lodge. — [By-Laws, Art. 17.) 

§8. The appointed officers have duties as prescribed m 
the charge books of the Order. 

§9. A Grand Lodge ha3 power to expel a member from 
its own body, but it possesses no power to expel a member 
altogether from the Order. It may, however, order a Sub- 
ordinate Lodge to try a member, and to this order the Sub* 
ordinate must yield obedience. — [Vol, 2, p. 485.) 

ARTICLE III. — Subordinate Lodges* 
§1. Subordinate Lodges derive their powers from the 
authority which created them, and are restricted to the ex- 
ercise of those conferred by their warrants and the laws of 
the several Grand Lodges under which they exist. They 
have no legislative power whatever except to make Bty> 
Laws for their own internal government. 

§2. They are subject at all times to the supervision and 
control of their Grand Lodges, and for any violation or 
neglect of their duties, may be punished as the Grand Lodge 
may determine. They must receive with respect all com- 
munications emanating from their superiors.— [Vol. 2, p. 
208.) 

§3. They have no authority to ask advice or counsel 
from any other quarter than the Grand Lodge by which 
they are governed, nor can they lawfully enter into corres- 
pondence with each other, without the consent and approval 
of their Grand Lodges. 



48 DIGEST OF LAWS. 

§4. Subordinate Lodges under the jurisdiction of the 
Grand Lodge of the United States, may adopt a Constitu- 
tion, subject to the approval of the Grand Lodge of the Uni- 
ted States ; they make semi-yearly and annual returns to 
that body, transmitting therewith their dues, being ten per 
centum on their receipts ; and each Subordinate Lodge is 
furnished with a printed copy of the proceedings of the G. 
L. U. S.— {Cons. Art. Xll, By-Laws, Art. 3, 10, 11,21.) 

§5. A Subordinate Lodge under the jurisdiction of the 
(Grand Lodge of the United States, which fails to make its 
returns for one year forfeits its charter. — [Vol. 2, p. 76, 

m.) 

■§6- The location of a Subordinate Lodge is designated in 
its charter, and it cannot remove but with the sanction of 
its Grand Lodge. It may select its own place of meeting, 
and its Grand Lodge cannot interfere with such selection, if 
the Lodge-room be private and safe from intrusion. — ( Vol. 
2,/>. 55, 178,208.) 

§7. The charter of a Subordinate Lodge cannot be sur- 
rendered by a majority of its members, but remains in force 
so long as five members are willing to work under it. — 
(Vol. I, p. 370.) 

§8. When a charter of a Subordinate Lodge has been 
surrendered or reclaimed, its books and effects must be 
placed in the keeping of the Grand Lodge ; and its charter, 
name, number, and property cannot be restored to any but 
a sufficient number of its original members.— -( Vol. 1, p. 53, 
311.) 

§9. No person is eligible to membership in any Subordi- 
nate Lodge, under the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of 
the United States, or of the Grand Lodge of British North 
America, or of any of the Grand Lodges, by either of said 
supreme bodies established, except he be a free white male, 
of good moral character, of the age of twenty-one years, 
and a believer in a Supreme Being, the Creator and Pre- 
server of the Universe. — (Vol. 2, p. 54, 55, 329.) 

§10. No person can hold membership in more than one 
Subordinate Lodge at the same time. — (By-Laws, Art. 15, 
mol. l,p. 245.) 






GRAND AND SUBORDINATE LODGES. 49 

§11. A Subordinate Lodge is not allowed to initiate a 
person at a place remote from his residence, if a Lodge be 
located in his immediate neighborhood. — (By-Laws, jlrt. 
30, vol. 2, p. 475, 497.) 

§12. It cannot under any circumstances confer honorary 
membership, nor admit a person without payment of fee, 
except under regulations of its Grand Lodge. — ( Vol.2, p. 
61, 207.) 

§13. Good standing signifies contributing membership in 
a Subordinate Lodge, and freedom from any disability by 
reason of non-payment of dues, or of charges under the 
penal provisions of the Lodge.—- ( Vol. I, p. 547*) 

§14. A member of a Subordinate Lodge, may on his own 
written application, withdraw from the Order, without a 
withdrawal card.-— (Vol. 2, p. 201.) 

§15. The officers of a Subordinate Lodge are the N, G., 
V. G., Secretary, Permanent Secretary (if necessary) and 
Treasurer, who are elected by the Lodge ; Warden, Conduc- 
tor, O. G., I. G., R. and L. S. of N. G., R. and L. S. of V. G., 
R. S. S., L. S. S., who are appointed by the N. G.~— 
(Usage.) 

§16. They have duties and powers as prescribed by the 
charge books of the Order, and the laws of the Grand Lodge, 
under which they exist. The N. G. and V. G., are enti- 
tled to the T. P. W., and superintend the examination of 
visitors— ( Vol. 2, p. 86.) 

§17. Twenty-six nights service as an inferior officer is a 
sufficient qualification for the office of V. G., provided the 
brother has attained to sufficient degrees, and is otherwise 
competent. — [Vol. 2, p. 463.) 

§18. Service for one term in the V. G.'s chair is a neces- 
sary qualification for the office of N. G. — (Vol. 2, p. 467.) 

§19. In the absence of the N. G., it is not only the right, 
but the duty of the V. G., to take the place of the superior 
officer, and fulfil all his functions. — (Vol. 2, p. 464.) 

§20. Service as N. G. for a full term, or the remnant of 
a term by filling a vacancy, or a majority of nights of a 
regular term, if a new Lodge be instituted in the course thereof, 



50 DIGEST OF LAWS. 

entitles a brother to the rank of P. G., and to a seat in his 
Grand Lodge.— {Vol 2, p. 45, 191.) 

§21. The Past official degrees of N. G., V. G. and Sec- 
retary, are conferred upon brothers who have discharged 
the duties of those offices, by their Grand Lodge. The 
first N. G. of a new Lodge is entitled to the official degrees, 
and the first V. G. to the degrees of P. V. G. and P. Sec- 
retary, but in no other case can they be conferred, except 
for service actually performed. — ( Vol. 2, p. 191, 479.) 

§22. The officers of a Subordinate Lodge are installed 
according to the form prescribed by the Grand Lodge of the 
United Sates by the Grand Master, or by a Deputy by him 
appointed. The Grand Master retains the privilege of in 
stalling the officers of any Lodge if he deem proper. — ( Vol. 
2, p. 315 ; By-Laws, Art. 27.) 

§23. The terms of Subordinate Lodges are six months 
each, commencing on the first meeting of July and the first 
meeting of January in each year. — [Vol. 2, p. 296, 308.) 

§24. In case of a Subordinate Lodge, instituted before 
the expiration of a term, if fourteen weeks remain, they 
shall be deemed a regular term ; if less than that number 
of weeks remain, the remnant is added to the ensuing term, 
and the officers serve until the close thereof. — [Vol. 2, p. 
190.) 

§25. If a member of a Subordinate Lodge refuse to stand 
trial upon charges duly preferred, he cannot in his absence 
be tried, but may be expelled for contempt. — ( Vol. 2, p. 
202.) 

§26. If a member acknowledge his guilt upon charges 
preferred, the penalty may be imposed without trial. — [Ibid.) 

§27. Upon the trial of a member charged, an exparte 
statement cannot be introduced as testimony ; his wife can- 
not he permitted to testify; but all evidence tending to a 
fair investigation of his case mav be admitted. — [Vol. 2, p. 
51.) 

§28. Indefinite suspension of a member for non-payment 
of dues, may be terminated by a Grand Lodge without the 
consent of its Subordinate. — Vol. 2, p. 205-6.) 

£29. Suspension of membership by act of a Lodge as a 



GRAND AND SUBORDINATE LODGES. 51 

means of punishment, works no suspension of arrears, but 
the arrears run on during the time of the suspension. — 
(General Usage.) 

§30. A new trial of a member of a Subordinate Lodge, 
cannot be ordered by a Grand Lodge, in case of appeal, on 
the ground of informality, or want of fairness on the former 
trial, unless such facts, or the discovery of new testimony- 
be proved.— ( Vol. 2, p. 213.) 

§31. If upon an appeal of a member of the Subordinate 
Lodge, the Grand Lodge reverses the decision of its Subor- 
dinate, the brother charged may be reinstated without the 
consent of the Subordinate Lodge. — (Vol. 2, p. 349.) 

§32. A member of a Subordinate Lodge, except it be un- 
der the immediate jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of the 
United States, cannot appeal to that body. — (Vol. 1, p. 36, 
130, vol. 2, p. 146, approved usage.) 

§33. Pending an appeal of a Subordinate Lodge, to the 
Grand Lodge of the United States, an individual under pen- 
alty, and whose case is involved in the appeal, occupies the 
position prescribed for him by his Grand Lodge. — Vol. 2, 
p. 299.) 

§34. A. Subordinate Lodge cannot appeal to the Grand 
Lodge of the United States, unless with the consent of its 
Grand Lodge, except in case of its expulsion, it having first 
surrendered its effects. — (Cons. Art. J, as amended, vol. 2, 
p. 145.) 

§35. If a member of a Subordinate Lodge commit suicide, 
his family are nevertheless entitled to the funeral benefits. 
—(Vol. 2, p. 205.) 

§36. A Subordinate Lodge can ask for relief only through 
its Grand Lodge or Grand Master, and it must obtain the 
prescribed certificate from such authority. — (Vol. 2, p. 256, 
302, see appendix.) 

§37. Subordinate Lodges and members thereof are pro- 
hibited from printing any of the lectures, charges, odes, diplo- 
mas, &c, adopted and printed by the Grand Lodge of the 
United States.— (Vol. 2, p. 352.) 

§38. Lectures, unless authorized by the regulations of 
the local jurisdictions, are prohibited in Subordinate Lodges. 
— (Vol. 2, p. 57.) 



52 DIGEST OF LAWS. 

§39. Visiting and withdrawal cards of the prescribed 
forms, are given to members in good standing upon applica- 
tion therefor.— ( Vol. 2, p. 74, 75.) 

§40. Upon granting a withdrawal card to a member upon 
application, his membership ceases at once, whether the 
card be taken or not. — (Vol. 2, p. 312.) 

§41. If a Lodge grant relief to a travelling brother, the 
amount of benefit granted is endorsed upon his card. — (Vol. 
2, p. 299.) 

* §42. Whenever a Lodge becomes extinct, its members 
may receive from the Grand Recording Secretary, certifi- 
cates of their regular connexion, in order to enable them to 
join other Lodges. — (Vol. I, p. 458, voL 2, p. 455.) 

§43. There is no reason for refusing to receive into the 
American Order, persons who have withdrawn from the 
Manchester Unity ; but there being no communion between 
that body and the Grand Lodge of the United States, such 
persons can only come in by initiation, and precisely as 
other initiates do. — ( Vol. 2, p. 470.) 

§44. A Lodge working in a foreign language, may keep 
a record of its proceedings in the language in which it 
works ; but it is bound also to keep a record in the English 
language. — [Vol. 2, p. 509. 

§45. The junior P. G. is not strictly an officer of the 
Lodge, but it is his duty to occupy the seat of Past Grand 
for one term, and deliver the Past Grand's charge at initia- 
tion. It is therefore improper that he should be elected to 
any office.- (Vol. 2, p. 509.) 

§46. The order of business contained in the printed work 
of Subordinates is to be considered in the light of a recom- 
mendation merely. If the Subordinates can conveniently 
adhere to the form in the charge book, it is only proper 
that they should do so ; if they cannot, they may regulate 
the order of business to suit their particular necessities. — 
( Vol. 2, /;. 460.) 

ARTICLE IV. — Degree Lodges and Degrees. 

§1. The legality of Degree Lodges is recognized by the 
Grand Lodge of the United States.— ( Vol. 2, p. 347.) 



GRAND AND SUBORDINATE LODGES. 53 

§2. The price for Degrees is left to the control of the local 
Grand Lodges— (Vol. 2, p. 207.) 

§3. No Lodge can confer Degrees upon a member of 
another Lodge, but with the consent of the Lodge to which 
the member belongs. — (By-Laws, Art. 15. ( 

§3. If the preceding law be violated, the Lodge confer- 
ring the Degrees shall pay the amount of fees to the Lodge 
of which the recipient of the degrees was a member.— ( Vol. 
1, p. 274.; 

§4. The time, place and manner of conferring the Subor- 
dinate Degrees are proper subjects for local legislation. But 
under no circumstances would it be lawful to permit mem- 
bers to vote on applications for degrees, who have not re- 
ceived the degree applied for. — (Vol. 2, p. 487.) 

§5. The Grand Encampment degree can regularly be 
given, only during the session, and in the room in which 
the Grand Encampment is assembled, but by special per- 
mission it may be conferred in some contiguous room. — 
(Vol. 2, p. 487.) 

§6. A. similar rule applies to the Grand Lodge degree. — 
(Vol. 2, p. 487.) 

§7. Grand Lodges may authorize District Deputy Grand 
Masters to confer the Past Official degrees at any time, up- 
on persons duly qualified, or may authorize said degrees to 
be conferred in any other manner. — (Vol. 2, p. 487. J 
5* 



DIVISION FOURTH. 



ARTICLE I. — Grand Encampments. 
Origin, Organization, Powers. 

§1. Grand Encampments exist by virtue of warrants or 
dispensations duly granted or confirmed by the Grand 
Lodge of the United States. Upon all occasions when pre- 
cedence is to be observed, they rank below State Grand 
Lodges, which are the supreme legislative heads within 
their respective jurisdictions. — [Cons. Art. 1; By-Laws, 
Art. 4, 13, vol. Up. 456.) 

§2. They consist of all Past Chief Patriarchs or Past 
High Priests, or if their Constitutions so determine, of all 
Past Chief Patriarchs only, within their respective jurisdic- 
tions, but no person can be a member of more than one G. 
Encampment at the same time. — (Vol. I, p. 355, vol. 2, 
p. 56, 354, By-Laws, Art. 15, vol. 2, p. 510.) 

§3. They work in the Grand Encampment Degree. — 
(Vol. I, p. 447-50.) 

§4. Each Grand Encampment has a seal, an impression 
whereof in wax is sent to the Grand Recording Secretary ; 
it adopts a Constitution subject to the approval of the G. 
Lodge of the United States ; makes to that body an annual 
return, is entitled to a Representative, and if containing 
within its jurisdiction more than one thousand members, 
two Representatives in the Grand Lodge of the United 
States ; it must pay for each vote to which it is entitled 
twenty dollars per annum, but it cannot vote by its Repre- 
sentative if it be more than one year in arrears for dues to 
the Grand Lodge of the United States. It may nominate 
by its Representative or Representatives, a candidate for 
the office of Grand Sire, and a candidate for the office of 
Deputy Grand Sire; it must pay the expenses of its Repre- 
sentative, furnish him with a certificate in proper form, and 
with all documents necessary in the discharge of the duties 
of his office ; it is entitled to such number of copies of the 
54 



DIGEST OF LAWS. 55 

printed proceedings of the Grand Lodge of the United 
States, as it has Subordinates in its jurisdiction, for its own 
use and an equal number to be distributed among such Sub- 
ordinates.-— (Cons. Art. 10, 12, 14, By-Laws, Art. 9, 10, 
11, 12, 19, 21.) 

§5. Grand Encampments are required to enforce upon 
their Subordinates a strict adherence to the prescribed work; 
they must not use, nor suffer to be used any other than the 
prescribed charges, lectures, degrees, ceremonies, forms of 
installation and regalia, and they are held responsible for 
any irregularities in this respect, which they allow under 
their jurisdictions. — (By-Laws, Art. 23.) 

§6. They must enact laws to prohibit their Subordinates 
from initiating brethren from other States, or at places re- 
mote from their permanent residence, if such reridence be 
in the neighborhood of an Encampment. — (By-Laws, Art. 
30.) 

§7. Each Grand Encampment has control over all Sub- 
ordinate Encampments within its jurisdiction. It has power 
to grant charters and to open Encampments ; it enacts laws 
for the government of its Subordinates, prescribing the 
forms of their returns, and requires of them the payment of 
dues to defray its expenses. — (Usage.) 

§8. It receives appeals from its Subordinates and their 
members, and none except an expelled Subordinate En- 
campment, which has surrendered its effects, can appeal 
but with its consent, from its decision to the Grand Lodge 
of the United States. — (Cons. Art. 1.) 

§9. It enforces its laws upon its Subordinates. It may for 
cause annul the Charter of a Subordinate Encampment. In 
case of the forfeiture or annulment of a charter it takes pos- 
session of the books and effects of the Subordinate, but 
it cannot restore these, nor the name and number of the 
Subordinate to any persons except the former members. — 
(Usage.) 

§10. The officers of a Grand Encampment are, M. W. 
Grand Patriarch, M. E. Grand High Priest, R. W. Grand 
Senior Warden, R. W. G. Scribe, R. W. G. Treasurer, R. 
W. Junior Warden, who are elected, and G. Sentinel, who 
is appointed by the G. P. 



56 SUBORDINATE ENCAMPMENTS. 

§11. The Grand Patriarch has powers and duties as pre- 
scribed in the charge books of the Order ; he has super- 
visory authority over the jurisdiction of his Grand En- 
campment ; he may introduce visiting brethren into any 
Encampment within his jurisdiction, to which they would 
be entitled to visit by card. — ( Usage — P. G. S. Hopkins, 
Zd Ser. Letters, 54. ) 

§12. The other elective officers have powers and duties 
as prescribed in the charge books, and may introduce vi- 
siting brethren without examination, into any Encampment 
within the jurisdiction of their Grand Encampment. 

ARTICLE II. — Subordinate Encampments. 

§1. Subordinate Encampmen's exist by virtue of war- 
rants or charters, duly granted by the competent authori- 
ty within whose jurisdiction they are established, and are 
subject to their superior, with the same restrictions and 
prohibitions before prescribed for Subordinate Lodges. — 
(By-Laws, Art. 2.) 

§2. Subordinate Encampments under the jurisdiction of 
the Grand Lodge of the United States, may adopt Consti- 
tutions subject to the approval of that Body ; they must 
transmit to the Grand Lodge of the United States semi- 
annual returns, accompanied by their dues, viz : ten per 
centum on their receipts, and failing to make returns 
for one year their charters are forfeited. In case of the 
establishment of a Grand Encampment in the State, Dis- 
trict or Territory in which they are located, they pass un- 
der the jurisdiction of such Grand Encampment. — (Cons. 
Art. 12— By-Laws, Art. 4, 10, 16; vol. 2,p. 76,88.) 

§3. If the number of members of a Subordinate be re- 
duced below its constitutional quorum, viz: seven members, 
its charter is forfeited, and its books and effects must be 
surrendered to the Grand Body under which it exists ; and 
its name, number, charter and property will be restored to 
none, save its orginal members. — (Vol. 1, p. 370, vol. 2, p. 
195.) 

§4. If a Subordinate Encampment created by the Grand 
Lodge of the United States, has become extinct, and sub- 



GRAND ENCAMPMENTS. 57 

frequently a Grand Encampment be established in the State, 
District or Territory, within which it was located, a suffi- 
cient number of the original members of the Subordinate 
may with the consent of such Grand Encampment, apply 
to the Grand Lodge of the United States for a restoration of 
its charter and effects. — (Vol. 2, p. 195.) 

§5. To acquire or retain membership in an Encampment 
full membership in a Subordinate Lodge is indispensably 
necessary. — (Vol. 2, p. 350. ) 

§6. No person can hold membership in more than one 
Encampment at the same time. — (By-Laws, Art. 15. ) 

§7. The granting of a withdrawal card by a Subordinate 
Lodge to one of its members who is also a member of an 
Encampment, has the effect of severing at once his con- 
nection with his Encampment, but on the renewal of his 
membership in a Subordinate Lodge his membership in 
his Encampment is thereby renewed, provided such renewal 
shall occur within one month from the date of such with- 
drawal card. — (Vol. 2, p. 352. J 

§8. By the renewal of membership in a Subordinate 
Lodge (within the time limited,) membership in the En- 
campment is ipso facto renewed, and if the Patriarch de- 
sires to withdraw, he must pursue the usual course. — {Vol, 
2, p. 454.) 

§9. Where by the operation of the law as set forth in §7, 
a Patriarch loses his membership in an Encampment, it is 
the duty of the proper officers of such Encampment to fur- 
nish said Patriarch with a regular withdrawal card, provided 
said Patriarch shall be in good standing and comply with 
the regulations of said Encampment touching such cards. — 
(Vol. 2, p. 461.) 

§10. Subordinate Encampments are prohibited from ini- 
tiating brethren at places remote from their residence while 
Encampments are located in the neighborhood of such resi- 
dence. — (By-Laws, Jlrt. 30. ) 

§11. A member of an Encampment may withdraw there- 
from, if free from charge, without taking a card. — ( Vol. 2, 

p. 20i.; 

§12. A member under charges in an Encampment, if he 



58 DIGEST OF LAWS 

plead guilty, may receive his penalty without trial; if he 
refuse to appear he may be punished for contempt. — ( Vol. 
2, p. 201-2. 

§13. The terms of Subordinate Encampments are six 
months, ending with June and December of each year. In 
case of a new Encampment, if there be more than thirteen 
weeks between the time of its institution and the termination 
of the regular term, they are considered a full term ; if there 
be thirteen weeks or less, then the same, with the ensuing 
term, constitute one term. — ( Vol. 1, p. 451 ; vol. 2, p. 190.) 

§14. The officers of an Encampment are, Chief Patri- 
arch, High Priest, Senior Warden, Scribe, Treasurer, Juni- 
or Warden, who are elected by the Encampment, Guide, 
Sentinel, 1st, 2d, 3d, 4th Watches, who are appointed by 
the C. P., 1 st and 2d G. of T., who are appointed by the H. P. 

§15. The duties of the C. P. are prescribed in the charge 
books. He is entitled to the T. P. W., and superintends 
and directs the examination of visiting brethren. — ( Vol. 2, 
p. 300, 338.) 

§16. The duties of the other officers are contained in the 
charge books of the Order. The S. W. is entitled to the T.P. W. 

§17. The business of an Encampment must not be al- 
lowed to interfere with the business of any Lodge. — (Vol. 
1,J0. 241.) 

§18. The Encampment regalia, except by visitors, can be 
worn only in an Encampment, but members of a Grand 
Lodge who have received the R. P. Degree, may wear the 
colors of the Encampment in Grand Lodge. — (Vol. I, p. 
242, By-Laws, Art, 25, 31. 

§19. It is discretionary with the Encampments to use 
prayer, or not, at the opening and closing. In the confer- 
> ring of the degrees, the prayers are an integral part of the 
work and cannot be omitted. — (Vol. 2, p. 428-9.) 

§20. The J. W. may preside in the absence of the C. P. 
and S. W., if the local laws do not prohibit it. — (Vol. 2, p. 
509.) 

§21. In the absence of the H. P., if no P. H. P. be 
present, any R. P. member may perform all the duties of 
that officer, if the local laws do not prohibit it. — ( Vol. 2, p. 
509.; 



APPENDIX I. 



CONSTITUTION, LAWS AND RULES OF ORDER OF THE 
GRAND LODGE OF THE UNITED STATES. 



CONSTITUTION. 

Whereas, it is of great importance that those instituti* 
should be perpetuated which are of essential benef 
mankind ; and whereas, Odd-Fellowship is based upo*» 
the eternal principles of universal Friendship, Philanthropy 
and Beneficence — Therefore, the Grand Lodge of the United 
States of the Independent Order of Odd-Fellows, to bind 
the Order more effectually in a common and indissoluble 
union : to provide for its best interests and to secure to all 
time the advantages and blessings which it dispenses, doth 
ordain and establish this Constitution. 

Done hi the City of Baltimore, in the State of Maryland, 
this fifth day of September, in the year one thousand eight 
hundred and thirty-three. 

Article I. 

This Lodge shall be known by the name, style and title 
of the "Grand Lodge of the United States of the Indepen- 
dent Order of Odd-Fellows," and possesses original and 
exclusive jurisdiction in Odd-Fellowship, over the territo- 
ries comprising the Federal Government of the United 
States. It is the source of all true and legitimate authority 
in Odd-Fellowship in the United States of America. AH 
State, District and Territorial Grand Lodges and Encamp- 
ments assemble under its warrant, and derive their authority 
from it. With it is placed the power to enact such laws 
and regulations as shall be for the good of the Order in ge- 
neral. It is the ultimate tribunal to whicli all matters 
of general importance to the State, District and Territo- 

59 



60 DIGEST OF LAWS. 

rial Grand Lodges and Grand Encampments are to be re- 
ferred, and its decisions thereon shall be final and conclu- 
sive. With the consent of the Grand Lodge or Grand En- 
campment of a State, District or Territory, it may receive 
an appeal of a Subordinate Lodge or Encampment, from 
the decision of a Grand Lodge or Grand Encampment ; such 
consent, however, not being necessary when an expelled 
Lodge or Encampment, after having delivered up its effects, 
appeals from the decision of its Grand Lodge or Grand En- 
campment. To it belongs the power to regulate and control 
the work of the Order, and the several degrees belonging 
thereto; and to fix and determine the customs and usages, 
in regard to all things which concern Odd-Fellowship. It 
has inherent power to establish Lodges or Encampments in 
foreign countries where no Grand Lodge and Grand Encamp- 
ment exists. Such Lodges and Encampments shall work 
by virtue of a warrant granted by this Grand Lodge. 

Article II. 

§1. The members of this Grand Lodge shall be, the 
Grand Sire, Deputy Grand Sire, Grand Recording Secre- 
tary, Grand Corresponding Secretary, Grand Treasurer, 
Grand Marshal, Grand Guardian, Grand Chaplain, and the 
Representatives from State, District, and Territorial Grand 
Lodges and Grand Encampments, acting under legal, un- 
reclaimed warrants granted by this Grand Lodge. 

4 

Article III. 

The elective officers shall be, Most Worthy Grand Sire, 
Right Worthy D. G. Sire, Grand Recording Secretary, G. 
Corresponding Secretary, and Grand Treasurer, all of whom 
shall be elected biennially, at the stated meetings of this G. 
Lodge, in September, except the Grand Corresponding Se- 
cretary, who shall be elected during the pleasure of this G. 
Lodge. They shall be duly installed, and enter on the du- 
ties of their offices at the stated meeting next ensuing their 
election. The Right Worthy Grand Marshal, Right Wor- 
thy G. Guardian, and Right Worthy G. Chaplain, shall be 






CONSTITUTION. 61 

nominated by the Grand Sire, and if approved of by the G. 
Lodge, they shall be installed at the stated meeting next 
ensuing the election of Grand Officers. If, however, any 
of the elective officers fail to appear to be installed at the 
time provided, the particular office or offices shall be de- 
clared vacant, and the Grand Lodge shall, in that event pro- 
ceed to a new election to fill such vacancy or vacancies, and 
the officer or officers so elected shall be accordingly in- 
stalled. They shall attend each meeting of the Grand 
Lodge, and perform such other duties as are enjoined by the 
laws and regulations of the j Order, and such as may be 
required by the presiding officer. No officer (who is not 
also a Representative) shall be permitted to vote ; except 
the Grand Sire, in case of equal division. 

Article IV. 

The Grand Sire shall preside at all meetings of the Grand 
Lodge, preserve order, and enforce the laws thereof. He 
shall have the casting vote whenever the Lodge shall be 
equally divided ; but shall not vote on any other occasion. 
During the recess of this Grand Lodge he shall have a ge- 
neral superintendence over ihe interests of the Order, and 
make report to the next stated meeting of his acts and do- 
ings in relation thereto. He shall not hold any office in 
any State, District or Territorial Grand Lodge or Grand 
Encampment, while acting as Grand Sire. 

Article V. 

§1. The Deputy Grand Sire shall open and close the 
meetings of the Grand Lodge, support the Grand Sire by 
his advice and assistance, and preside in his absence. 

§2. In the absence of the Grand Sire and Deputy Grand 
Sire, the Grand Lodge shall elect a Grand Sire pro tempore. 

Article VI. 
§1. The G. Recording Secretary shall make a just and 
true record of all the proceedings of the Grand Lodge in a 
book provided for that purpose ; summon the members to 
6 



62 DIGEST OF LAWS. 

attend at stated and special meetings ; keep accounts be- 
tween the Grand Lodge and the Grand and Subordinate 
Lodges and Encampments under its jurisdiction ; read all 
petitions, reports and communications ; and perform such 
other duties as the Grand Lodge may from time to time re- 
quire. He shall receive for his services such sum of money 
as the Grand Lodge shall from time to time determine. 

§2. The Grand Corresponding Secretary shall write all 
letters and communications, carry on, under the direction of 
the Grand Lodge or Grand Sire, its correspondence, and 
transact such business of this Grand Lodge, appertaining to 
his office, as may be required of him by the Grand Lodge. 
All communications transmitted or received by him, shah 
be laid before the Grand Lodge 

Article VII. 
The Grand Treasurer shall keep the moneys of the G. 
Lodge, and pay all orders drawn on him by the Grand Sire, 
attested by the Grand Secretary, under the seal of the Grand 
Lodge. He shall lay before the Grand Lodge, at its stated 
meeting in Seotember, a full and correct statement of his ac- 
counts. 

Article VIII. 

Past Grand Sires shall be admitted to seats in this Grand 
Lodge, and be entitled to vote on all questions coming be- 
fore the Grand Lodge, provided they be not Representa- 
tives. 

Article IX. 

The Grand Guardian shall prove every brother before 
he admits him, and allow no one to depart without the pass- 
word. 

Article X. 

Representatives from Grand Lodges and Grand Encamp- 
ments must be Past Grands in good standing, who have re- 
ceived the R. P. Degree. They must be elected or ap- 
pointed by the Grand Lodge or Grand Encampment they 
represent, for the term of two years from the commence- 



CONSTITUTION. 63 

ment of the annual session of the Grand Lodge of the 
United States, preceding which they shall have been so 
elected or appointed, and must be furnished with a certifi- 
cate, as follows : 

F. L. and T. 
To the R. W. Grand Lodge of the United States of the I. 0. of O. F. 

This certifies that P. G. , has been duly elected (or ap- 
pointed) Representative from the Grand Lodge, (or Grand Encamp- 
ment) of , to the Grand Lodge of the United States. 

Witness our hands and the Seal of the Grand , this 

day of — 

tifi&J&M > G. Master (or G. Patriarch.) 

, (jr. Secretary, (or G. Scribe.) 



No brother shall represent a Grand Lodge or Grand En- 
campment in this Grand Lodge, unless he resides in the 
State, District or Territory where the Grand Lodge or G. 
Encampment of which he offers himself as a Representative 
is located. No Representative shall represent more than 
one Grand Body at the same time. 

The Representatives shall be entitled to vote on all ques- 
tions before the Grand- Lodge, in the manner following, to 
wit : Each Grand Lodge or Grand Encampment having less 
than one thousand members, one vote ; and each Grand 
Lodge or Grand Encampment having more than one thou- 
sand members, one additional vote ; the annual returns of 
the several Grand Lodges and Grand Encampments to de- 
termine the number of votes which each Grand Lodge or 
Grand Encampment is entitled to. 

Article XL 

The Grand Lodge of the United States shall meet annu- 
ally on the third Monday in September. It may meet on 
its own adjournments; and specially, on the call of the 
Grand Sire. When the purpose of meeting is the granting 
of a charter, the Grand Sire may convene the Grand Lodge, 
first causing two weeks notice to be given to the Represen- 
tatives of the different Grand Lodges and Grand Encamp- 
ments, and communicating to them the special purpose 



64 DIGEST OF LAWS. 

thereof. In other special cases, the Grand Sire shall cause 
two months notice to be given to the different State, District 
and Territorial Grand Lodges and Grand Encampments, 
communicating to them the purpose for which the special 
meeting is called. In no case shall any business be trans- 
acted at a special meeting, unless notice thereof has been 
given as above stated. The hour of meeting shall be nine 
o'clock, A. M., and at such place as the Grand Lodge shall 
from time to time determine. 

Article XII. 

The revenue of the Grand Lodge shall be as follows : 

1st. Fees for Grand Lodge or Grand Encampment char- 
ter, $30. 

2d. Fees for charter for Subordinate Lodges or Encamp- 
ments, working under its immediate jurisdiction, $30. 

3rd. Dues from Subordinate Lodges or Encampments, 
holding warrantsjfrom this Lodge, 10 per cent, on their re- 
ceipts. 

4th. Dues from State, District or Territorial Grand Lodges 
and Grand Encampments, $20 per annum, for each vote 
they shall be entitled to in this Lodge. 

Article XIII. 

In case of death, resignation, disqualification, or refusal 
of the Grand Sire to serve, the duties of the office shall be 
performed by the R. W. D. G. Sire until the next stated 
meeting of the Grand Lodge, when an election shall be had 
for Grand Sire. In case of the death, resignation, disquali- 
fication, or refusal to serve of any elective or appointed of- 
ficer, the Grand Sire shall appoint some qualified brother 
to perform the duties until the next stated meeting, when an 
election or appointment, as the case may require, shall take 
place. 

Article XIV. 
Each Grand Lodge, and each Grand Encampment work- 
ing under an unreclaimed warrant granted by the Grand 



J 



CONSTITUTION. 65 

Lodge of the United States, may by its Representative, no- 
minate a candidate for the office of Grand Sire and a can- 
didate for the office of Deputy Grand Sire. The candidate 
thus nominated must be a Past Grand Master, who shall 
have received the R. P. Degree, and be a contributing mem- 
ber of a Subordinate Lodge. A majority of all the votes 
given shall be necessary to elect a Grand Sire or Deputy 
Grand Sire. 

Article XV. 
A majority of the Representatives of the several Grand 
Lodges and Grand Encampments shall be necessary to 
form a quorum for the transaction of business. All ques- 
tions, except as hereafter provided, shall be decided by a 
majority of the votes given. 

Article XVI. 

With the consent and approval, from time to time expressed, of this Grand 
Lodge, the Most Worthy Grand Sire may accredit any officer or member of this 
Grand Lodge as a special Grand Representative, near the Grand Lodge of any 
sovereign jurisdiction in Odd- Fellowship, recognized by this Grand Lodge ; and 
in such case the necessary expenses of such special Grand Representative's visit 
may be appropriated for from the funds of this Grand Lodge. And any officer 
or member of any such foreign Grand Lodge, who may be duly accredited from 
the same as a special Grand Representative near this Grand Lodye, shall be 
admitted to a seat or the floor of this Grand Lodge, and shall have a deliberative 
voice, but not a vote in the proceedings of this G. L- — [Adopted scssiun 1S47.) 

Article XVIJ. 

By-Laws, in conformity with this Constitution, may 
be made, which shall not be altered or amended, un- 
less such amendment be made at a stated meeting, and be 
assented to by two-thirds of the votes given. 

Article XVIII. 

Any alteration or amendment of this Constitution must 
be offered to this Grand Lodge, in writing, at a stated meet- 
ing thereof, and if seconded, it shall be entered on the min- 
utes : at the next stated meeting the amendments may be 
considered, and if agreed to by two-thirds of the votes 
given, shall become a part of the Constitution. 
6* 



BY-LAWS. 



Article I, 

Upon the petition of five brothers of the Order, in good 
standing, praying for a charter to open a Subordinate Lodge 
in a State, District or Territory, where a Grand Lodge has 
not been established, this Lodge may Grant the same. All 
Subordinate Lodges receiving warrants from the Grand 
Lodge of the United States, shall be opened by a Past 
Grand of the Order, regularly deputized therefor by the 
Grand Sire, who shall deliver to such Lodge the warrant 
and charge books, and shall at the opening thereof give all 
necessary instruction. Such Lodge shall be visited, at least 
once a year, by the Grand Sire, or some Past Grand depu- 
tized by him for that purpose, or by a D. D. Grand Sire. 

Article II. 
Upon the petition of seven qualified members of the Or- 
der, in good standing, praying for a warrant to open an En- 
campment in a State, District or Territory, where a Grand 
Encampment has not been established, this Lodge may 
grant the same. All Encampments receiving warrants from 
this Grand Lodge shall be opened by the Grand Sire, or by 
a qualified Patriarch, who shall deliver to such Encamp- 
ment the warrant and charge books, and such instructions 
as may be necessary. Such Encampment shall be visited, 
at least once a year, by the Grand Sire, District Deputy 
Grand Sire, or by some Patriarch deputized by him for that 
purpose. 

Article III. 

Subordinate Lodges and Encampments, working immedi- 
ately under the jurisdiction of this Grand Lodge, shall trans- 
mit to the Grand Recording Secretary quarterly reports, 
containing the same information as is required from Grand 
66 






BY-LAWS. 67 

Lodges and Encampments by Article XI of these laws. 
The reports shall be accompanied by the dues in current 
money. 

Article IV. 

Three or more Subordinate Lodges or Encampments, 
located in any State, District or Territory, (where a Grand 
Lodge or Grand Encampment has not been established,) 
having seven Past Grands or Past C. Patriarchs, in good 
standing, may petition the Grand Lodge of the United 
States, in writing, praying for the charter of a Grand Lodge 
or Grand Encampment, in such State, District or Territory, 
which if approved of by a majority of the votes given, shall 
be granted ; and such Grand Lodge or Grand Encampment 
shall be opened by the Grand Sire, or some qualified bro- 
ther or Patriarch, whom he shall deputize for that purpose. 

Article V. 

All applications for Charters for Grand Lodges or Grand 
Encampments, must be by a vote of a majority of the 
Lodges or Encampments within the State, District or Ter- 
ritory, as follows : When three or more Lodges or En- 
campments shall agree in the opinion that a Grand Lodge 
or Grand Encampment will contribute to the general inter- 
est, notice thereof shall be given to all the Lodges or En- 
campments in the State, District or Territory, inviting them 
to meet in consultation, at some convenient time and place. 
Each Lodge or Encampment shall appoint one or more of 
its Past Grands or Past Chief Patriarchs, or Past High 
Priests, as Representatives, to meet in Convention and con- 
sider the propriety of applying for a Grand Charter, as well 
as to determine upon the place for the erection of the Grand 
Lodge or Encampment, (both of which questions shall be 
decided by a majority vote, which majority vote must 
represent at least three Lodges or Encampments.) Should 
any Lodge or Encampment neglect or refuse to send a 
Representative, or should the Representative, from accident 
or other cause, fail to attend, it shall not operate to defeat 



68 DIGEST OF LAWS. 

the proceedings of such as may assemble, provided a suffi- 
cient number be present to comply with the preceding re- 
quirements. Each Subordinate Lodge or Encampment 
shall furnish to its Representative a statement, under the 
seal of the Lodge or Encampment, of the number of Past 
Grands or Past Chief Patriarchs, in good standing, belong- 
ing to it. At the meeting of these Representatives the votes 
shall be by Lodges or Encampments, and the application 
shall be in the following form, to wit : 

To the R. W. Grand Lodge of the United 

Slates of the I. O. of O. F. 

The petition of Lodge, (or Encampment,) No. 1, 

No. 2, No 3, of respectfully repre- 
sents, that at present they work under warrants granted by 

your R. W. body ; that at present they have Past 

Grands, (or Past C. Patriarchs) in good standing. They 
are of opinion that it would be of advantage to the Order, 
to establish a Grand Lodge, (or Grand Encampment) in the 

— . They therefore pray your R. W. body to grant 

a charter for a Grand Lodge (or Grand Encampment) in 

the , to be located at . 

Witness our hands and seals this day of , 18 — . 

A. B., Representative of No. 1. 

C. D., Representative of No. 2. 

E. F., Representative of No. 3. 

Article VI. 

All travelling and other expenses of the Grand Sire, Past 
Grand or Patriarch, deputized by him to open a Grand or 
Subordinate Lodge or Encampment, shall be paid by such 
Lodge or Encampment. 

Article VII. 

Applications for Grand or Subordinate Lodges or En- 
campments must be accompanied by the fee for the same, 
which shall be returned if the charter is not granted. 

Article VIII. 

No more than one Grand Lodge or Grand Encampment 
shall be chartered in any State, District or Territory. 



Article IX. 

Each Grand Lodge and Grand Encampment shall have 

a Seal, an impression whereof in wax shall be sent to the 

Grand Secretary, and be deposited in the archives of the 

Grand Lodge of the United States. 

# 

Article X. 

The Constitution of each Grand and Subordinate Lodge 
or Encampment, chartered by this Grand Lodge, immedi- 
ately on its adoption, shall be forwarded to this Grand 
Lodge for its approval. 

Article XL 

Annual returns shall be made by each State, District or 
Territorial Grand Lodge or Grand Encampment, in which 
they shall give full information of the number of members 
in good standing, names of Grand Officers, Past Grand Offi- 
cers, number of initiations, rejections, suspensions and 
cause, expulsions and cause, admissions by card, withdraw- 
als by card, deaths, amount expended for relief of brothers, 
amount expended for education of orphans, and whole 
amount of receipts ; forms for which shall be furnished by 
this Grand Lodge. Said returns shall be made to the Grand 
Recording Secretary, at least one month previous to the 
annual meeting of this body, and shall be accompanied with 
the dues thereon in money current at par in the place where 
the meeting of this body is held. 

Akticle XII. 

No Grand Lodge or Grand Encampment which shall be 
in arrears more than one year for dues to this Grand Lodge, 
shall be allowed to vote by its Representative, or Represen- 
tatives. 

Article XIII. 

During the recess of the Grand Lodge of the United 
States, the Grand Sire, Deputy Grand Sire, and Grand 
Recording Secretary shall be authorized to grant dispensa- 



70 DIGEST OF LAWS. 

tions to open Grand Lodges or Encampments, or Subordi- 
nate Lodges or Encampments, which shall be submitted to 
this Grand Lodge for approval and confirmation at its 
next annual meeting. 

Article XIV. 

The Grand Sire shall, through the Grand Representatives, 
at each session of the Grand Lodge, forward immediately, 
a travelling password to the Grand Master of each Grand 
Lodge, the Grand Patriarch of each Grand Encampment, 
and to the N. G's of Subordinate Lodges, and the C. P's of 
Encampments working under this jurisdiction ; and the 
Grand Master and Grand Patriarch shall communicate the 
same to the N. G's of the several Lodges, and the C. P's 
of Encampments in the State, District, or Territory. The 
said T. P. W. to go into operation on the first day of Janu- 
ary in each and every year. 

Article XV. 

No person shall hold membership in more than one Grand 
or Subordinate Lodge or Encampment at the same time ; 
nor shall any Lodge or Encampment confer degrees upon 
any member of another Lodge or Encampment, without the 
consent of the Lodge or Encampment to which the member 
belongs, given under its seal. 

Article XVI. 

When a Grand Lodge or Grand Encampment shall have 
been duly chartered in any State, District, or Territory, all 
the Lodges and Encampments in said State, District or Ter- 
ritory working under the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge 
of the United States, shall thereafter be declared subordi- 
nate to, and under the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge or 
Encampment of the State, District or Terrritory in which 
they are located ; and no Lodge or Encampment situated 
in one State, District, or Territory can be made subordinate 
to the Grand Lodge or Encampment of another State, Dis- 
trict, or Territory. 



BY-LAWS. 71 

Article XVII. 

No brother can be admitted to visit, or deposit his card 
in a Lodge or Encampment out of the State, District, or 
Territory where he resides, unless he present a card or cer- 
tificate under the signature of the officers and seal of the 
Lodge of which he is a member, and signed in the margin, 
in his own proper hand writing, and prove himself in the 
T. P. VV., and in the Degree in which the Lodge is open. 
Provided nevertheless, a brother may always visit if intro- 
duced bf a Grand Representative, or other elective officer 
of the Grand Lodge or Grand Encampment under whose 
jurisdiction he wishes to visit. 

Article XVIII. 

At each Annual Session the Grand Sire shall appoint in 
each State, District and Territory, (in which there are not 
a Grand Lodge and a Grand Encampment,) an officer to be 
styled " District Deputy Grand Sire," whose duty it shall 
be to act as the special agent of this Grand Lodge, in rela- 
tion to the matters herein specified, viz : 

1. To act for the Grand Sire, and by his direction to 
perform whatever may have been ordered to be done by 
the G. L. of U. S. in the particular District for which the 
D. D. G. Sire may be appointed. 

2. To act as the Representative of this Grand Lodge, and 
perform all such matters relating to the Order in his District 
as the Grand Sire shall direct. 

3. To obey all special instructions of the Grand Sire in 
relation to any thing which that officer is required to do for 
the good of the Order. 

4. To act as the agent of the Grand Secretary, and obey 
the special directions of that officer. 

5. To have a general supervision over all Subordinate 
Lodges and Encampments (in his district) which work un- 
der' charters granted by the Grand Lodge of the United 
States. 

6. To make semi-annual reports of his acts and doings 
to the Grand Sire. 



72 DIGEST OF LAWS. 

7. D. D. G. Sires shall in no case interfere, as officers 
of this Grand Lodge, with the State Grand Lodges or En- 
campments. 

8. To qualify a brother for the appointment of D. D. G. 
Sire, he must be a regular contributing member of a Subor- 
dinate Lodge and Encampment, and must have attained a 
rank of P. G. and R. P. D., and in States where Grand 
Encampments maybe established, he must also be a mem- 
ber of such Grand Encampment. The appointment of D. 
D. Grand Sires shall be made at each annual session, to 
continue for one year, but they may be revoked for cause 
during the recess, by the Grand Sire. 

Article XIX. 

The Representative of each Grand Lodge and Grand 
Encampment shall be examined by the D. G. Sire as to 
his qualifications for the office, previous to taking his seat 
in the Grand Lodge of the United States. On taking his seat 
he shall be furnished by the Grand Recording Secretary, 
with a copy of the Constitution, Rules of Order, and Laws 
of this Grand Lodge. His expenses shall be paid by his 
Grand Lodge or Encampment, and should he neglect or 
refuse to attend the meetings of this Lodge when duly no- 
tified, he shall be fined five dollars, unless excused by a 
vote of the Lodge. 

Article XX. 

Each State, District or Territorial Grand Lodge or Grand 
Encampment shall furnish its Representative with aU docu- 
ments and papers necessary in the discharge of the duties 
of his office. 

Article XXI. 

Each State, District and Territorial Grand Lodge shall 
annually be furnished with as many copies of the printed 
proceedings of this Grand Lodge as it has Subordinate Lodges 
working under its jurisdiction, for its own use ; and an 
equal number to be distributed amongst its Subordinates. 






BY-LAWS. 73 

Each Grand Encampment shall be furnished in the same 
manner. And eachEncampment and Lodge working under 
the warrant of this Grand Lodge shall be furnished with a 
copy of the proceedings. The Grand Recording Secretary 
shall see that this law is carried into effect, at as early a date 
as possible after the close of the annual sessions of this G. 
Lodge. 

Article XXII. 

All dues and moneys for this Grand Lodge shall be paid 
to the Grand Recording Secretary, and by him be immedi- 
ately paid over to the Grand Treasurer, who shall give his 
receipt for the same. 

Article XXIII. 

All State, District and Territorial Grand Lodges and 
Grand Encafnpments shall enforce upon their Subordinates 
a strict adherence to the work of the Order, according to the 
forms furnished by the Grand Lodge of the United States, 
and shall be held responsible for any irregularities that they 
may allow under their jurisdiction. They shall neither 
adopt or use, nor suffer to be adopted or used in their ju- 
risdiction, any other charges, lectures, degrees, ceremonies, 
forms of installation, or regalia, than those prescribed by 
the Grand Lodge of the United Stales. 

Article XXIV. 

All Grand and Subordinate Lodges and Encampments 
under this jurisdiction mav at all times open and close their 
meetings with prayer. 

Article XXV. 

The regalia of the Order shall be as follows, to wit : 
Aprons and collars of Subordinate Lodges shall be white, 
trimmed with the emblematic color of the degree intended 
to be represented, i. e. first degree, white ; second degree, 
pink ; third degree, blue; fourth degree, green ; fifth de- 
gree scarlet ; rosettes of the appropriate colors can be worn 
7 



74 DIGEST OF LAWS. 

on the collars. The Noble Grand shall wear a scarlet 
collar ; Vice Grand, blue collar ; Secretary, green collar : 
Treasurer, green collar ; each of which trimmed with white 
or silver. Supporters of N. G., scarlet sashes ; of the V. 
G., blue sashes; Warden and Conductor, black sashes; 
Scene Supporters, white sashes ; Chaplain, white sash. 

The aprons of the elective and appointed officers shall 
be white, trimmed with the color of the collar or sash in- 
dicated for the office. 

Past Grands shall wear scarlet collars or sashes, and 
aprons either white, trimmed with scarlet, or scarlet, trim- 
med with white. The aprons and collars or sashes of 
Past Grands may be trimmed with silver lace or fringe, and 
those having attained to the R. P. Degree may have trim- 
mings of yellow metal. The Grand Officers and Past 
Grands of Grand Lodges shall wear the regalia of Past 
Grands, as above defined. 

The Encampment regalia shall be black aprons and gloves, 
and of those Patriarchs who have attained to the R. P. De- ' 
gree, purple collars, and the aprons and collars trimmed 
with yellow lace, or fringe. 

Regalia for Grand Representatives shall be a collar of 
purple velvet, not more than four inches in width, with a 
roll of scarlet velvet. The trimmings to be of yellow metal ; 
the collar to be united in front with three links, to which 
may be suspended such medal or medals as the member may 
be entitled to wear. 

P. G. Representatives and the Officers and Past Officers 
of the G. h. of U.S. to wear the regalia above described. 

The jewel of the Grand Sire, and P.- G. Sire, shall be a 
medal three inches in diameter of yellow metal, on one 
side of which shall be the coat of arms of the United States 
surrounded by an ornament edging of silver. 

Representatives and Past Representatives, shall be enti- 
tled to wear medals of the size and style above, with the 
coat of arms of the State represented. — (Vol. 2, jo.508, 519,) 

Article XXVI. 
All expenses of this Grand Lodge shall be paid by an 



BY-LAWS. 75 

order drawn on the R. W. Grand Treasurer, signed by the 
Grand Sire and attested by the Grand Secretary, the same 
being authorized by a vote of the Grand Lodge. 

Article XXVII. 
The installation of officers in Subordinate Lodges shall be 
conducted only in manner and form as provided bv the In- 
stallation Book. 

Article XXVIII. 

At the appointed hour, the Grand Sire shall take the 
chair and organize the meeting by directing the Grand Re- 
cording Secretary to call the names of the officers of this 
Grand Lodge. After which the Secretary shall make re- 
port of the number of Representatives present. When, if 
a quorum be present, the Grand Sire shall call on the Grand 
Chaplain to address the Supreme Ruler of the Universe in 
prayer. The Deputy Grand Sire shall then examine the 
Representatives present, and report to the Grand Sire, and if 
correct, the Grand Sire shall direct the members to clothe 
themselves with their regalia and take their seats ; after 
which the Deputy Grand Sire, at the request of the Grand 
Sire, shall proclaim the Lodge duly opened. The business 
of the session shall then be taken up as provided in the Rules 
of Order ; and when the business is concluded, the Grand 
Chaplain shall offer a prayer and the Deputy Grand Sire 
shall proclaim the Grand Lodge duly closed. 

Article XXiX. 
State Grand Lodges are prohibited from conferring the 
Grand Lodge Degree for apecuniary consideration, with a view 
to increasing their revenue, or for any other consideration 
except the regular performance of the duties of the Noble 
Grand's chair — the said degree having been designed as 
a reward for faithful service in the Subordinate Lodges. 

Article XXX. 
State Grand Lodges and Grand Encampments shall pro- 



76 DIGEST OF LAWS. 

vide laws to protect their brethren in adjoining or distant 
States, by prohibiting the subordinates under their jurisdic- 
tion from initiating persons at places remote from their 
permanent residence, while Lodges and Encampments 
are known to be located in the immediate neighborhood. 

Article XXXI. 

Past Officers of every description, and members in pos- 
session of the Encampment degrees, and all other members 
of the Order, when visiting Grand or Subordinate Lodges, 
are entitled to wear the regalia and jewels pertaining to the 
highest degrees which they may have taken, if they think 
proper to appear in such regalia. 

Article XXXII. 

The T. P. W. is designed only for the use of brethren 
who are travelling beyond the limits of the jurisdiction, to 
which they belong ; and in order that each brother may be 
properly instructed in it, and visiting brethren from other 
jurisdictions properly examined, the two highest elective 
officers of a Lodge, and theC. P. and S. W. of an Encamp- 
ment, are to be privately put in possession of the word, at 
the time of their installation, xhat they may be qualified 
either to give or receive it. The Grand Master and Grand 
Patriarch of a State and their regular Deputies should of 
course also be in possession of it. 

Article XXXIII. 

The fiscal year of this Grand Lodge commences on the 
first day of July and terminates on the thirtieth of June. 

Article XXXIV. 

The charters of all Subordinate Lodges and Encamp, 
ments, working under the immediate jurisdiction of this 
Grand Lodge, which fail to make their returns for one year, 
shall be forfeited, and whenever such remissness occurs, the 
Grand Sire shall take proper measures to enforce the law. 



RULES OF ORDER. 77 

Article XXXV. 

Any alterations or amendments of these By-Laws must 
be proposed in writing, at a regular annual communication, 
and may be considered and acted upon at the same session, 
but not on the day on which they are offered. 

Article XXXVI. 

All former laws and regulations inconsistent with tiie 
provisions of these general laws are hereby repealed. 



RULES OF ORDER. 



1. The presiding officer having taken the chair, the offi- 
cers and members shall take their respective seats, and at 
the sound of the gavil there shall be general silence. 

2. The business shall be taken up in the following order: 
— The Grand Lodge shall be opened in due form. 

3. The Grand Recording Secretary shall report on cer- 
tificates of Representatives, which shall be referred to a 
committee. 

4. The minutes of the last annual and intervening meet- 
ings shall be read and passed upon. 

5. The Grand Sire shall then appoint the following com- 
mittees, each to consist of three members, viz : — Com- 
mittee on the State of the Order ; Committee on Petitions ; 
Committee on Finance ; Committee on Returns and Reports 
of Grand Lodges and Grand Encampments, and Subordinate 
Lodges and Encampments ; Committee of Correspondence, 
and Committee on*4ppeals. 

6. The Grand Sire shall also appoint a committee con- 
sisting of three members, whose duty it shall be to take in 
charge, and prepare for the action of the Grand Lodge, all 
business appertaining to State Grand Lodges or Grand En- 
campments, which shall not be represented by the personal 
attendance of delegates. 



78 DIGEST OF LAWS. 

7. The report of the Grand Sire as to his acts and 
doings during the recess of this Grand Lodge shall be pre- 
sented. 

8. Annual reports of the Grand Corresponding Secretary 
and Grand Treasurer shall be presented. 

9. Petitions shall be presented, read and referred. 

10. Other communications shall be presented and read. 

1 1. The above order of business may be dispensed with 
at the discretion of the Lodge. 

12. Election and installation of officers for the ensuing 
term shall take place on the second day of the session. 

13. During the sitting of the Grand Lodge, each Repre- 
sentative or visiter, on entering or leaving the Lodge, shall 
address the presiding- officer with the sign of the R. P. 
Degree. 

14. No motion shall be subject to debate until it shall 
have been seconded, and stated by the Chair — it shall be re- 
duced to writing at the request of any member. 

15. When a question is before the Lodge, no motion 
shall be received unless it be to adjourn, to refer, the pre- 
vious question, to lay on the table, to postpone indefinitely, 
to postpone to a certain time, or to amend ; and the motions 
just enumerated shall take precedence in the order of enu- 
meration. The first four shall be decided without debate. 

16. On a call of Representatives of three States, Districts 
or Territories, a majority of the Lodge may demand that the 
previous question shall be put, which shall always be in this 
form : " Shall the main question be now put?" and until 
it be decided, it shall preclude all amendments and all further 
debate. 

17. When the reading of any paper or other matter is 
called for and the same is objected to by any member, it 
shall be determined by vote of the Lodge, without debate. 

18. Before putting a question, the presiding officer shall 
ask, *' Is the Lodge ready for the question?" If no mem- 
ber rise to speak, he shall rise and put it. While the pre- 
siding officer is putting a question, or addressing the Lodge, 
none shall walk out of, or across the room, or entertain 
private discourse ; and after he shall have risen to put it, no 
member shall speak upon it. 



RULES OF ORDER. 79 

19. The presiding officer, or any member doubting 
the decision of a question, may call for a division of the 
Lodge. 

20. No member shall be permitted to speak or vote, un- 
less clothed in regalia, according to his rank and station, 
and occupying his seat at the place designated for him. 

21. In the election of officers, the Grand Sire shall put 
the question of the nomination of Grand Sire, and the 
election shall proceed before the nomination of Deputy 
Grand Sire, and so with the other officers. Duing the 
progress of a ballot for an officer, no motion can be en- 
tertained, or debate or explanation permitted. 

22. Every officer and member shall be designated by 
his proper title or office, according to his standing in the 
Order. 

23. Every member, when he speaks or offers a motion 
shall rise and respectfully address the presiding officer ; and 
while speaking he shall confine himself to the question in 
debate, avoiding all personalities and indecorous language, 
as well as all reflections upon the Lodge, or any of its 
members. 

24. Should two members rise to speak at the same time, 
the chair shall decide which is entitled to the floor. And 
no member shall interrupt or disturb another while speak- 
ing, unless to call him to order for words spoken 

25. If a member while speaking, shall be called to order, 
he shall, at the request of the Chair, take his seat until the 
question of order is determined, when if permitted he may 
proceed again. 

26. The decisions of the Chair on points of order, may 
be appealed from by any member, and in such cases the 
question shall be, *.' Shall the decision of the Chair stand as 
the judgement of the Lodge?" 

27. No member shall speak more than twice on the same 
question, until all the members wishing to speak have had 
an opportunity to do so. 

28. When any petition, memorial or communication 
is presented, a brief statement of its contents shall be made 
by the introducer or the Chair. And after it has been read, 



80 DIGEST OF LAWS. 

a brief notice of its purport shall be entered upon the journal. 

29. When a blank is to be filled, the question shall be 
taken first upon the highest sum or number, and the longest 
or latest time proposed. 

30. Any member may call for a division of a question 
when the sense will admit. 

31. When one-fifth of the members rise in favor of taking 
a question by Yeas and Nays, they shall be ordered and 
recorded. 

32. The vote by States may be called on any question, 
if required by two States. 

33. All committees shall be appointed by the Chair, unless 
otherwise ordered. 

34. Any member who voted with the majority may ca'i 
for a re-consideration of a vote, at the same session in which 
it was passed, and if sustained by a majority of all the votes, 
the re-consideration shall be carried. 

35. No matter shall be considered at each morning session 
of the Grand Lodge until all reports of committees are gone 
througli with, and the Grand Sire shall call for the reports 
of committees in the order of their appointment. 

36. A committee appointed at one session to perform a 
duty, are bound to report, although some of the members of 
the committee have ceased to be members of this body. 
—(Vol. 2, p. 29.) 

37. The previous question cuts off all amendments. — ( Vol. 
2,jo. 205-6, 213.) 

38. Any member has a right to protest, and to have his 
protest spread upon the journal. — (Vol. \, p. 81, 139, vol. 2, 
p. 130.) 

39. A representative whose seat is disputed, may never- 
theless offer a resolution. — (Vol. I, p. 90.) 

40. The Grand Sire is entitled to the casting vote at an 
election of officers. — (Vol. \,p, 32.) 

41. The previous question may be called, though no 
amendment be pending at the time. — (Journal passim.) 

42. Every member is bound to vote, serve on committees, 
and accept nominations unless excused by vote. — (Journal 
passim.) 



APPENDIX II. 

FORMS. 



No. 1. 
Diploma. 

We, the Most Worthy Grand Sire, Right Worthy Deputy Grand Sire, 
Officers and Members of the Grand Lodge of the Independent 
Order of Odd-Fellows of the United States of America and juris- 
diction thereunto belonging : 
Do hereby certify, that our well beloved brother is a member 

of under the jurisdiction of the Grand and that he 

is a true and worthy member of our Order. 

In testimony whereof we grant him this certificate, and recommend 

him to the friendship of all the brethren of the Independent Order 

of Odd Fellows throughout the globe. And that the same may not 

be of use to any other person, we have caused him in our presence 

to sign his name in the margin. 

G. S. 
D.GS. 
G. C. and R. S. 

No. 2. 

Representative 's Diploma. 

We, the Most Worthy Grand Sire, Right Worthy Deputy Grand Sire, 
Officers and Members of the Grand Lodge of the Independent 
Order of Odd-Fellows of the United States of America and juris- 
diction thereunto belonging - : 

In Grand Lodge assembled, present a Representation from Mary- 
land, New York, Pennsylvania, District of Columbia, Ohio, Louisiana, 
New Jersey, Kentucky, Virginia, Connecticut, Massachusetts, New 
Hampshire, Maine, South Carolina, Missouri, Georgia, Alabama, 
Michigan, Tennessee, Indiana, Wisconsin, North Carolina, Missis- 
sippi, Illinois and Delaware, have unanimously presented to a well 

81 



82 DIGEST OF LAWS. 

beloved brother the R. W. 

G. Representative of the Grand Lodge of this 

Diploma, as an evidence of his regular communion and fellowship 
with the Independent Order of Odd-Fellows, and in appreciation of 
his zeal and devotion to the welfare of our beloved Order. 

Done at the City of Baltimore, on the day ol in 

«he year of our Order in the United States, and of our Lord, 18 

G.M. 



G.S. 



G. C. and R. S. 



No. 3. 
Certificate of Grand Representative 
F. L. and T. 
To the R W. Grand Lodge of the United States, of the I. O. of 0. F. 

This Certifies, That P. G. 
has been duly elected, (or appointed,) Representative from the Grand 
Lodge, (or Grand Encampment) of 
to the Grand Lodge of the United States. 
Witness our hands and seal of the Grand 
this day of 

G. Master, (or G. Patriarch.) 
G. Secretary, (or G. Scribe.) 

No. 4. 

Petition for a Warrant of a Subordinate Lodge. 

To the Grand Sire, Officers and Members 

of the Grand Lodge of the United States : 
The Petition of the undersigned, holding withdrawal Cards from 
Lodges legally recognized by your R. W. Body, respectfully repre- 
sents, that it would be consistent with the advantage of the Order, to 
establish a Subordinate Lodge, to be located at in the State of 

Wherefore your Petitioners pray, that a Warrant may duly issue 
Ai pursuance of the Laws of your R. W. Body. 
Dated at this day of 



FORMS. 83 

No. 5. 

Petition for a Warrant of a Subordinate Encampment, 

To the Grand Sire. Officers and Members 

of ihe Grand Lodge of the United States : 

The Petition of the undersigned Patriarchs, holding withdrawal 
Cards, from legal Encampments, (or instructed in the Encampment 
Degrees, under commission of the Grand Sire,) respectfully repre- 
sents, that it would be consistent with die advantage of the Order, to 
establish a Subordinate Encampment ; to be located at in 

the State of 

Wherefore, your Petitioners pray that a Warrant may duly issue 
in pursuance of the Laws of the R. W. Body. 
Dated at this day of 

No. 6. 
Petition for a Grand Lodge or Grand Encampment. 
To the Grand Sire, Officers and Members of the 

Grand Lodge of the United States, I. 0. O. F. 
The petition of Lodge, (or Encampment,) No. 

No. No. of respectfully represent that at present 

they work under warrants granted by your honorable body ; that the 
Order has increased in the and at present they have Past 

Grands, (or Past C. Patriarchs,) in good standing. They are of the 
opinion that it would be of advantage to the Order, that a Grand 
Lodge (or Grand Encampment) should be established in die 
They therefore pray your honorable Lodge to grant a charter for a 
Grand Lodge (or Grand Encampment) in the State of ro be 

located at 

Witness our hands and seals this day ol 

A. B., Representative of No. 
C. D., Representative of No. 
E. F., Representative of Noi 

No. 7. 

Warrant for Lodge or Encampment. 
I. O. O. F 
7b all whom it may concern : 

l Most Worthy Grand Sire of the Grand Lodge of the 



84 DIGEST OF LAWS. 

Independent Order of Odd-Fellows, of the United States of North 
America, and the jurisdiction of the Order thereunto belonging:— 
Friendship, Love, Truth. 
Know ye, that by virtue of the powers in me vested, I do hereby 
authorise and empower our trusty and well beloved brethren 
their successors duly and legally elected, to constitue a in the 

of and State oi to be known 

and hailed by the title of 

And I do further authorise and empower our said trusty and well 
beloved brethren and their successors, to admit and make Odd- 
Fellows according to the ancient usages and customs of the Order, 
and not contrarywise ; with full power and authority to hear and 
determine all and singular, matters and things relating to the Order 
within the jurisdiction of the said according to the rules 

and regulations of the Grand Lodge of the United States. Provided 
always, that the said above named brethren, and their successors, 
pay due respect to the Grand Lodge of the United States, and the 
ordinances thereof, otherwise this Dispensation to be of no force or 
effect. 

Given under my hand, and Seal of the Grand Lodge of the United 
States, at the City of Baltimore, in the State of Maryland, this 
day of 

[seal.] By the Grand Sire. 

R. and C. S. 



No. 8. 
Form of Warrant for Grand Lodge or Grand Encampment. 

I. 0. O. F. 

To all whom it may concern : 

I Most Worthy Grand Sire of the Grand Lodge of the 

Indepedent Order of Odd-Fellows, of the United States of North 
America, and the jurisdiction of the Order thereunto belonging: 
Friendship, Love, Truth. 

Know ye, that by virtue of the powers in me vested, I do hereby 
authorise and empower our trusty and well beloved to constitute 

a in the of and State of to be 

known and hailed by the title of 



FORMS. 85 

And I do further authorise and empower our said trusty and well 
beloved to hear and determine all and singular, matters 

and things relating to the Order within the jurisdiction of the said 
according to the rules and regulations of the Grand Lodge 
of the United States. Provided always, that the said pays 

due respect to the Grand Lodge of the United States, and the ordi- 
nances thereof; and provided also, this Dispensation shall be approved 
at the next session of the said Grand Lodge of the United States, other- 
wise to be of no force or effect. 

Given under my hand, and Seal of the Grand Lodge of the United 
States, at the City of Baltimore, in the State of Maryland, this 
day of and of our Order the 



[SEAL.] 



Grand Sire. 
C.S. 



No. 9. 
Commission to open Lodge or Encampment. 

I 0. O. F. 

I. Most Worthy Grand Sire of the Independent 

Order of Odd-Fellows, in and for the United States of North America, 
and the jurisdiction of the Order thereunto belonging: — - 
To our Worthy Brother, Greeting : 

Reposing special confidence in your zeal and ability, I do, by 
virtue of the powers and authorities in me vested, hereby authorise 
and empower you to call to your assistance a sufficient number of 
known, approved, and duly qualified in the of 

and State of to open and constitute a new 

to be held there, — and to proceed to the installation of our Worthy 
Brother who shall be elected and other the Officers of a 

new there to be established and constituted, — to be 

hailed and known by the title ot 

according to the most ancient and honorable custom of the Order, 
and not contrary wise,-— and make roport to me hereunto ammexed 
of your proceedings. 



86 DIGEST OF LAWS. 

This Dispensation to remain in full force for three months from 
the date hereof, and no longer. 

Given under my hand and seal, at the in the 

on this day of 



[seal.] 



By the Grand Sire. 



R. and C. S. 



. No. 10. 

Commission to confer Encampment Degrees 

I. 0. of O. F. 

Whereas, residing at 

the oi have by petition requested to be enabled to open 

an Encampment of Patriarchs at the place aforenamed; and have 
produced to me sufficient testimony of their regular connection in 
the Order: 

Therefore, I, Most Worthy Grand Sire of the Independent 

Order of Odd-Fellows, in and for the United States of America, and 
the jurisdiction thereunto belonging: by virtue of the powers and 
authorities in me vested, do by these presents hereby authorise and 
empower our worthy and well beloved Patriarch in 

whom I repose special confidence, to call to his aid such number of 
known, approved and duly qualified Patriarchs as may be disposed 
to a^ist in the of and ot and there 

to initiate the above named brethren into the mysteries of the En- 
campment Branch of the Order, conferring upon them the several* 
degrees thereunto appertaining, according to the most ancient and 
honorable custom of our Order, and not contrary wise: so as to enable 
said Brethren to make petition in due and lawful form as Patriarchs 
of the Order for a charter 1 for an Encampment to be located in said 

And the said Patriarch to whom this commission is entrusted, is 
hereby required to make full and immediate report to me, of his 
proceedings. 

This Dispensation to remain in force for three months from the 
date hereof, and no longer. 



FORMS. 87 

Given under my hand, and the Seal of the Grand Lodge of the 
United States, at the ot in the 

ol this day of 

[seal.] 

By the Grand Sire, 
C. and R. S. 



No. 11. 

[Form of Dispensation to continue operations where a Charter has been 

destroyed.] 

I. 0. 0. F. 

I, Most Worthy Grand Sire of the Independent 

Order of Odd-Fellows, in and for the Uimited States of North America, 
and the jurisdiction of the Order thereunto belonging: 

To the of No. held in the ot in the 

State of these Presents in 

Friendship, Love and Truth, Come Greeting. 

Whereas, it has been represented to me that the of your 

has been destroyed by and sufficient proof has been given that 

there is no illegal concealment nor wilful destruction of the same. 

Now therefore, by virtue of the powers and authorities in me 
vested, I do hereby authorise, empower and request you, the present 
and succeeding officers and members of the said No. 

to continue your labors in the same full and complete manner to all 
intents and purposes as you could or might legally have done if your 
said had not been destroyed, and was still in existence agree- 

ably to all the usages, rules and regulations of Odd-Fellowship and 
especially to those of our Most Worthy Grand Lodge of the United 
States, and not contrarywise. 

This dispensation to continue in force until the next Annual Com- 
munication of our said Most Worthy Grand Lodge, and until its 
pleasure in the premises shall have been made known to you. 

Given under my hand and seal, at the oi in the 

oi this day oi in 

[seal.] 

By the Grand Sire. 
C. and R. S. 



88 DIGEST OF LAWS. 

No. 12. 
Commission for District Deputy Grand Sire. 

I. O. O. F. 
Friendship, Love and Truth. 

I, Most Worthy Grand Sire of the I. O. of 0. F. 

of the United States and the jurisdiction thereunto belonging, to our 
well beloved brother and to all whom it may concern, 

send greeting : 

Know ye, that reposing special confidence in your knowledge and 
discretion, I do by virtue of the power and authority in me vested, 
hereby appoint and commission you the said our District 

Deputy for the of to be entitled, 

Worthy District Deputy Grand Sire of the I. O. of 0. F. of the United 
States, for the of 

And as our District Deputy Grand Sire for said you are 

empowered and directed to act as the Special Agent of the Grand 
Lodge of the United States, in. relation to the matters herein spe- 
cified, viz: 

To act for the Grand Sire, and by his directions to do and perform 
whatever may have been ordered to be done and performed by the 
Grand Lodge of the United States in your 

To act as the Representative of the Grand Lodge of the United 
States, and do and perform all such matters relating to the Ordei in 
your as the Grand Sire shall direct You shall 

obey all special instructions of the Grand Sire, in relation to any thing 
which that Officer is required to do for the " Good of the Order." 

You are to act as the Agent of the Grand Secretary, and obey the 
special directions of that Officer. 

You are to have the general supervision over ail Subordinate . 
Lodges and Encampments in your which work under 

Charters granted by the Grand Lodge of the United States. ♦ 

It is your duty to see that the Work of the Order is performed 
uniformly by such Subordinates; to install or cause to be installed by 
a P G. or P. C. P., in regular form, at the periods designated by the 
regulations of the Grand Lodge of the United States, the Officers duly 
eleeted and appointed in the several Subordinates in your jurisdiction; 
to confer the Past Official Degrees on Past Officers, upon the presenta- 
tion of proper certificates from their respective ; to 



FORMS. 89 

make reports during the months in which installations take place — 
of the Officers installed — and the amount of dues from each subordi- 
nate, to the Grand Lodge of the United States. And to make, to the 
office of the G. Secretary, a full report during the month of July in 
each year, of your acts and doings, and of the work, condition and 
prospects of the Order in your 

You are required to make Semi-Armual reports of your acting and 
doings to the Grand Sire. 

You are in no case to interfere, as an Officer of the Grand Lodge 
of the United States, with Grand Lodges or Encampments. 

This Dispensation shall go into effect from the day of the date 
hereof, and remain in full force for and during the period of 
year unless sooner revoked by the Grand Sire. 

In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed 
the seal of the Grand Lodge of the United States, this day of 

By the Grand Sire, 

G. C. See'ry. 



No. 13. 

Visiting Card. 

Friendship, Love, and Truth. 
INDEPENDENT ORDER OF ODD FELLOWS. 

To all whom it may concern : 

This Certifies, that whose name is written 

on the margin of this card in his own proper hand writing, is a 
member in good standing of No. held at'., 

.and working under a Charter duly granted by authority of the Right 
Worthy Grand of the State of We 

therefore recommend him to your Friendship and Protection, and 
admission into all regular of Odd-Fellows, for the space 

of from the date, and no longer. 

In Witness whereof, we have subscribed our names and affixed 
the Seal of our this day o. 

in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and 
[seal] 

8* 



90 DIGEST OF LAWS 

No. 14. 

Withdrawal Card. 

Friendship, Love, and Truth. 

INDEPENDENT ORDER OF ODD-FELLOWS. 

To all whom it may concern . 

This certifies that our well beloved Brother 
whose signature, written by himself, is properly situated on the 
margin of this card, was regular admitted a Member of our 
by on the day of 18 and has paid all 

demands against him up to this day, and is under no charge what- 
ever. We therefore recommend him to your Friendship and Protec- 
tion, and admission into any regular of Odd-Fellows, 
to which he may apply within one year from the date hereof. 

This Card is granted by No. which was duly 

instituted at on the day oi 18 by authority 

of the Right Worthy Grand of the State of 

In witness whereof, we subscribe hereto our hands, and affix the 
Seal of our this day of in the Year 

of our Lord One Thousand Eight Hundred and 
[sjeai..] 

No. 15. 

Form of Card presented to Wife or Widow of an Odd-Fellow. 

Friendship, Love, and Truth. 

INDEPENDENT ORDER OF ODD-FELLOWS. 

To all to whom these presents shall come : — Greeting : 

This Certifies, that whose name is endorsed on the 

margin of this Card in her own proper hand writing, is the wife of 
our well beloved Brother who (is) a member of Lodge, No. held 
at and working under authority of a Charter duly granted 

by authority of the Right Worthy Grand Lodge of the 
We therefore recommend her to your Friendship and Protection 
wherever she may be, throughout the world, — for the space of 
and no longer. 

In Witness whereof, we have subscribed our names and affixed 
the Seal of our Lodge, this day oi 

in the year 

N. G. 
V. G. 
Sec'ky. 



FORMS. SI 

No. 16 
Form of Funeral Procession and Regalia. 

1. Resolved, That the Regalia to be worn by all brothers of the 
Order, when attending the funeral of a deceased brother, be as 
follows • 

A black crape rosette, having a centre of the color of the highest 
Degree to which the wearer may have attained, to be worn on the 
left breast; above it a sprig of evergreen, and below it (if the wearer 
be an Elective or Past Officer) the jewel or jewels which as such he 
may be entitled to wear. 

2. Resolved, That the ordinary mourning badge to be worn by 
brothers in memory of a deceased brother, be a strip of black crape 
passed through one buttonhole only of the left lapel of the coat, and 
tied with a narrow ribbon of the color of the highest Degree to which 
the wearer may have attained. 

3. Resolved, That the order of procedure at the funeral of a de- 
ceased brother, be as follows: 

At the appointed hour the Subordinate Lodge of which such brother 
was a member, shall meet at its Lodge room, and shall open in the 
Initiatory Degree ; and the N. G. shall appoint a marshal and such 
number of assistant marshals as may be required. The Lodge shall 
thereupon close, and the brothers shall pass in procession from the 
Lodge room to the place from which the funeral may have been 
appointed to start, in the following order: 

1. The marshal, wearing a black scarf, and bearing a baton bound 
with a band of black crape. 

2. The O. G. bearing a red staff in like mourning. 

3. The Scene Supporters bearing white wands in like mourning. 

4. Members of the Initiatory Degree, in order of juniority, two 
abreast. 

5. Members of the White, Pink, Royal Blue, Green and Scarlet 
Degrees, respectively, in like order. 

6. Members of the Lodge having the Patriarchal, G. R. and R. P. 
Degrees, respectively, in like order. 

7. The I. G., bearing the regalia and insignia indicative of the 
rank in the Order of the deceased brother. 

8. The Treasurer, Assistant, Permanent or Financial Secretary or 
Secretaries, and the Secretary of the Lodge. 



92 DIGEST OF LAWS. 

9. The P. G., supported by his R. and L. Supporters, each bearing 
his wand of office, bound with a band of black crape. 

10. The Chaplain, wearing a white scarf, and supported by the 
Warden and Conductor, each bearing his staff of office in like mourn- 
ing. 

11. The N. G., supported by his R. and L. Supporters, each bearing 
his wand of office in like mourning. 

12. The Past Grands of the Lodge, in order of juniority. 

13. Brethren of invited Lodges, those of each Lodge arranged in 
the order above prescribed ; the Lodges, when more than one may 
be represented, arranged in order of juniority. 

On arriving at the place appointed for the starting of the funeral, 
the brothers shall take position in the above order immediately before 
the corpse, and shall precede it to the place of interment. 

On arriving at such place of interment, the brothers shall open to 
the right and left, and allow the corpse, mourners, $-e. r to pass 
through, the brothers on either side standing uncovered, the hat held 
in the left hand of each, and joining hands with each other. Ami 
after the passing of the corpse, mourners, ^rc., between the two lines, 
the brothers shall re-form in procession after them in reversed order, 
and close the procession into and within the place of interment. 

After the performance of such religious service as the friends of 
the deceased may cause to be there performed, and before the final 
closing of the grave, the brothers shall form silently, and as nearly 
as may be according to the order above set forth, uncovered, the hat 
in the left hand of each, and joining hands with each other, in one 
or more circles, as regular as the nature of the ground may admi?. 
around the grave; when the Chaplain, or in default of a Chaplain, 
the N. G. may address the brothers and offer up a prayer, or may 
address the brothers without the offering of a prayer; and after such 
address or prayer, or both, or if there be no address or prayer, then 
after a pause suited to the solemnity of the occasion, the N. G. shall 
advance singly to the head of the grave, and cast into it with the 
right hand the sprig of evergreen from his regalia, and shall return 
to his place ; whereupon the brothers from left to right in regular 
succession, and in such numbers at a time as not to cause confusion, 
shall advance to the grave, shall cast into it (each with the right 
hand) the sprig of evergreen from their regalia, and shall return to* 
their place. And after all have done this, and the grave shall have 



FORMS. 93 

been filled up or closed, the brothers shall silently re-form into pro- 
cession according to the order observed in coming to the place of in- 
terment, and shall return in such order to the Lodge room, where 
. the N. G, shall declare the funeral ceremonies to be closed. 

4. Resolved, That if at the time of his death the deceased brother 
was a member of an Encampment, or of a State, District, or Territo- 
rial Grand Lodge, or Grand. Encampment, or of the Grand Lodge 
of the United States, the Chaplain and highest Officer or Officers; 
present, of such' Encampment, or Grand Body or Bodies, supported 
each by two members thereof, shall take position in the funeral pro- 
cession next after the Chaplain and N. G., respectively, of the Subor- 
dinate Lodge of the deceased, and shall take precedence of suoh N. 
G., and of each other, according to their respective rank, in conduct- 
ing the ceremony of interment as above set forth. 

5. Resolved, That in other processions of the Order the rules of pre- 
cedence above set forth, so far as they may admit of being followed, 
shall be adhered to. 

FUNERAL SERVICE. 

We are assembled, my brethren, to render the last office which the 
living may minister to the dead. 

Man is born to die. The coffin, the grave, the sepulchre, speak to 
MS in language that cannot be misunderstood, however 1 unheeded it 
may be, of" man's latter end." Youth in its harmlessness and com- 
parative innocency, and manhood with its wonted vigor and pride 
•of strength are not more exempt than decrepid and tottering age from 
the fixed lav/ of being, which dedicates all that is mortal to decay 
and death. 

This truth is inscribed in the great volume of nature upon its every 
page. The beautiful and the sublime which the handiwork of the 
Creator displays on our every side, fearfully associate the unerring 
certainty of the end of all things, amid the vividness of the moral 
which they are ever suggesting to the contemplative mind. 

Day aftea- day, we are called upon to follow our fellow creatures to 
that bourne whence no traveller returns: but from the house of 
mourning we go forth again to mingle in the crowded world, heedless 
perhaps of the precarious tenure of life and the certainty of that end 
to which all flesh is rapidly tending. He who gives the vigour of 
body, without warning, paralizes the stout heart, and strikes down 



04 



DIGEST OF LAWS. 



the athletic frame — the living of to-day, become the dead of the 
morrow. 

Men appear upon and disappear from the stage of life, as wave 
meets wave and parts upon the troubled waters — "In the midst of 
life we are in death. '•' He, whose lips now echo these tones of solemn 
warning, in turn will be stilled in the cold and cheerless house of the 
dead, and in the Providence of God none may escape. 

Let us then so far improve the lesson as to be prepared for that 
change, which leads to life eternal. 

PRAYER. 

Our Father and our God, who art the resurrection and the life; in 
whom whosoever believeth shall live though he die ; and whosoever 
liveth and believeth in thee shall not die — hear, we beseech thee, 
the voice of thy creatures here assembled, and turn not away from 
our supplications. 

We humbly beseech Thee, so to imbue us with a conviction of our 
entire helplessness and dependence upon thee, that we may be 
brought to meditate upon the uncertainty of life and the certainty of 
death. In the dispensation of thy Providence, thou hast summoned 
from amongst us our brother, and we the surviving monuments of thy 
mercy are gathered together to commit his remains to the earth. — 
Give, God, we beseech thee, thy Holy Spirit to us, whom thou hast 
spared ; increase our knowledge, and confirm our faith in thee, for- 
ever. 

[Bless and comfort, we pray thee, those whom it has pleased thee 
to add to the number of the disconsolate; buoy them up under this 
heavy stroke, sustain them against despondency. 0! wilt thou be 
their Father and their God, and pour down from on high thy bles- 
sings upon their head.-..] Bless, O Heavenly Father! the brethren 
here assembled, imbue them with the wisdom of thy laws, and draw 
them unto thee by the cords of thy inestimable love; impress them 
with their duty to each other as brethren, and their obligations in the 
various relations of human life, and finally, bless our beloved Order 
throughout the globe. Preserve its principles and its purposes from 
innovation; sustain it from the shafts of enmity — protect it from self- 
immolation, and shield it from all evil, and unto thee we shall render 
the praise, forever — Ames. 

The Form of Prayer adopted with Funeral Address and the Ceremony is left 
optional with Lodges or Encampments, whether they use it or none, — the form 
orescribed to be used if any. 



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of the R. W. Grand Lodge of the State of I. O. 0. F., showing the 

relief in the year commencing , 18—, and ending 18 — „ 



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♦he Grand Lodge of the State of , this — day of — , A D. 18 — . 



[I. 8.] 



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the Grand Encampment of the State of , this — day of — , A. 

D. 18—. 



[l. s.] 



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